Accessory support and coupling systems for an accessory support

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure provides a coupling system for coupling a medical accessory to an accessory support is provided. The present disclosure also provides a system for powering a medical accessory with an accessory support.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/422,979, filed on Feb. 2, 2017 and which claims priority to and thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/290,244, filed onFeb. 2, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/314,561,filed on Mar. 29, 2016, the entire contents of each of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The embodiments described herein relate to an accessory support anddevices for an accessory support.

BACKGROUND

Accessory supports are used in the medical field and may supportintravenous fluid containers. In some instances, accessory supports maybe used to support other medical accessories that assist with patientcare. By way of non-limiting example, medical accessories may include aninfusion pump, a line coupler assembly, an oxygen bottle holder, a fluidwarmer, a monitor, a respirator, a physiological sensor, and an oxygenbottle.

Caregivers, such as nurses, are often required to transfer medicalaccessories from one accessory support to another accessory support as apatient travels to various locations within a healthcare facility.Furthermore, movement of the patient in a wheelchair or bed with theattached accessory support can be cumbersome.

A system that overcomes one or more of the aforementioned challenges isdesired.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a coupling system for coupling a medical accessory toan accessory support is provided. The coupling system comprises anaccessory support having a power distribution system. The couplingsystem further comprises a first component supported by and electricallycoupled to the accessory support. The first component comprises a firstcoupling portion, and a first electrical connector for electricallycoupling the power distribution system of the accessory support to themedical accessory. The coupling system further comprises a secondcomponent configured to support the medical accessory and beelectrically coupled to the medical accessory. The second componentcomprises a second coupling portion configured for being removablycoupled to the first coupling portion of the first component, and asecond electrical connector for electrically coupling the medicalaccessory to the first electrical connector. The first coupling portionand the second coupling portion are configured to allow pivoting motionbetween a first and second position. In the first position the secondcomponent is supported by the first component. In the second positionthe second component is supported by the first component and the firstelectrical connector is electrically coupled to the second electricalconnector.

The present disclosure also provides a system for powering a medicalaccessory with an accessory support. The system comprises an accessorysupport having a DC power distribution system configured to output DCpower. The system further comprises, a medical accessory that is freefrom an AC/DC converter and is configured to receive DC power. Thesystem further comprises a first component. The first componentcomprises a first mounting portion, a first coupling portion, and afirst electrical connector. The system further comprises a secondcomponent. The second component comprises a second mounting portion, asecond coupling portion, and a second electrical connector. The firstmounting portion is supported by the accessory support and the medicalaccessory is supported by the second mounting portion. The firstelectrical connector is electrically coupled to the power distributionsystem of the accessory support. The second electrical connector iselectrically coupled to the medical accessory. The first component andthe second component are configured such that when the first couplingportion is coupled to the second coupling portion, the first electricalconnector is electrically coupled to the second electrical connector toenable the power distribution system of the accessory support to provideDC power to the medical accessory.

The present disclosure also provides, in another embodiment, a systemfor powering a medical accessory with an accessory support. The systemcomprises an accessory support. The accessory support comprises a powerdistribution system configured to selectively output D/C power and A/Cpower. The accessory support further comprises a controller configuredto control the power distribution system. The system further comprises afirst component. The first component comprises a first mounting portion,a first coupling portion, and a first electrical connector. The systemfurther comprises a second component. The second component comprises asecond mounting portion, a second coupling portion, and a secondelectrical connector. The first mounting portion is supported by theaccessory support and the second mounting portion is configured tosupport the medical accessory. The first electrical connector iselectrically coupled to the power distribution system of the accessorysupport. The second electrical connector is configured to beelectrically coupled to the medical accessory. The first component andthe second component are configured such that when the first couplingportion is coupled to the second coupling portion, the first electricalconnector is electrically coupled to the second electrical connector toenable the power distribution system of the accessory support to providepower to the medical accessory, and the controller is configured todetermine an identity of the medical accessory coupled to the secondcomponent, and cause the power distribution system to output A/C or D/Cpower based on the identity of the medical accessory.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated as thesame become better understood by reference to the following detaileddescription when considered in connection with the accompanyingdrawings.

FIG. 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of an accessory supportcoupled to a wheeled base.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a patient support apparatus.

FIG. 2B is a back view of a head end of the patient support apparatus ofFIG. 2A with the second embodiment of the accessory support coupledthereto.

FIG. 3A is a back view of a patient transport chair.

FIG. 3B is a right-side view of the patient transport chair of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a head end of a second type of patientsupport apparatus including two arm assemblies shown in a transportposition.

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the patient support apparatus of FIG.4A with the two arm assemblies shown in a patient-care position.

FIG. 4C is a partial top-side view of one of the arm assemblies of FIG.4A.

FIG. 5A is a partial perspective view of the patient support apparatusof FIG. 2A shown with another embodiment of the arm assembly shown in atransport position.

FIG. 5B is a partial perspective view of the patient support apparatusof FIG. 5A shown with the arm assembly in a patient-care position.

FIG. 5C is a partial view of the arm assembly of FIG. 5A in intermediateposition between the transport position and the patient-care position.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the arm assembly of an accessorysupport of FIG. 5C, depicted schematically with coupling sets, andmedical accessories configured to couple to the coupling sets.

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the accessory support of FIG. 5C, shownhaving exemplary power and mechanical interfaces, arranged on first,second, and third faces.

FIG. 6C is an alternate perspective view of the accessory support ofFIG. 6B, showing an oxygen bottle holder and AC outlets arranged on afourth face.

FIG. 6D a partial perspective view of the accessory support of FIG. 6Bhaving deployment devices.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of an exemplary line coupler assembly.

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the line coupler assembly of FIG. 7Acoupled to the accessory support of FIG. 1, and position adjacentanother exemplary patient support apparatus.

FIG. 7C is a top-side view of the lien coupler assembly of FIG. 7B,depicting representative positions within a range of motion of the linecoupler assembly in phantom adjacent to the patient support apparatus.

FIG. 7D is a partial perspective view of a first joint of the linecoupler assembly of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7E is a partial perspective view of a third joint of the linecoupler assembly of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7F is a perspective view of a line coupler of the line couplerassembly of FIG. 7A, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7G is a perspective view of another embodiment of a line couplerconfigured to mount on the line coupler assembly of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a cam clamp.

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the cam clamp of FIG. 8A shown engagingand secured to a portion the accessory support of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8C is a perspective view of the cam clamp of FIG. 8A shown engagingand unsecured to a portion of the accessory support.

FIG. 9A is a top-side view of one embodiment of a cleat lock shownengaging the accessory support of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the cleat lock of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a first component according to a firstembodiment of a coupling system, the first component including amounting portion comprising the cam clamp of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 10B is a side view of the first component of FIG. 10A and the camclamp of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of a second component according to thefirst embodiment of the coupling system for coupling to the firstcomponent of FIGS. 10A and 10B.

FIG. 11B is a rotated perspective view of the bottom of the secondcomponent of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11C is a partial perspective view of the second component of FIG.11A with a locking assembly engaging the first component of FIG. 10A,depicted in section as taken along line 11C-11C of FIG. 10B, in a lockedarrangement.

FIG. 11D is partial perspective view of the second component of FIG. 11Ashown engaging the first component of FIG. 10A, depicted in section astaken along line 11C-11C of FIG. 10B, in an unlocked arrangement.

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a first component in accordance with asecond embodiment of a coupling system.

FIG. 12B is a perspective view of a second component for coupling to thefirst component of FIG. 12A and a locking assembly in accordance withthe second embodiment of the coupling system.

FIG. 12C is a perspective view of the second component of FIG. 12Bwithout the locking assembly.

FIG. 12D is a perspective view of the second component of FIG. 12Bengaging the first component of FIG. 12A in a locked arrangement.

FIG. 12E is a sectioned perspective view of the second component of FIG.12B engaging the first component of FIG. 12A in a locked arrangement.

FIG. 12F is a perspective view of the second component of FIG. 12Bengaging the first component of FIG. 12A in an unlocked arrangement.

FIG. 13 is an electrical schematic diagram of the mounting apparatus ofFIG. 6A with corresponding medical accessories.

FIG. 14 is a front view of a first and second components of a couplingsystem according to a third embodiment, depicted schematically withcoupling sets.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a first component of FIG. 14,illustrated with exemplary data, power and mechanical interfaces.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a second component according of FIG.14, illustrated with exemplary data, power, and mechanical interfaces.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the first component of FIG. 15 andsecond component of FIG. 16 spaced from each other.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the first component of FIG. 15 andsecond component of FIG. 16 with the power and data interfaces spacedapart.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the first component of FIG. 15 andsecond component of FIG. 16 with the power and data interfaces coupledtogether.

FIG. 20 is a front view of a first and second components of a couplingsystem according to a fourth embodiment, depicted schematically withcoupling sets.

FIG. 21A is a perspective view of another embodiment of an arm assemblywith one extendable arm in a patient-care position and the otherextendable arm in a transport position.

FIG. 21B is a front view of the arm assembly of FIG. 21A with bothextendable arms shown in the transport position.

FIG. 21C is a front view of the arm assembly of FIG. 21A with bothextendable arms shown in the patient-care position.

FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of an intelligent battery system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to FIG. 1, an accessory support 20 for assisting withpatient treatment is provided. The accessory support 20 is configured tosupport one or more medical accessories.

In FIG. 1, the accessory support 20 comprises a post 22, such as theillustrated cylindrical pole. The accessory support 20 is configured toaid patient treatment in different locations within a healthcarefacility.

In some instances, it is necessary to provide fluids to a patientintravenously. The fluids may be disposed within an intravenous fluidcontainer, which may be coupled to the post 22, or may be hung on a poletopper 24, which may be coupled to the post 22. In the illustratedembodiment, the pole topper 24 comprises a pair of hooks. Of course,still other pole topper configurations are contemplated. The intravenousfluid container may be coupled to the patient via an intravenous linesuch that the fluid can flow from the intravenous fluid container to thepatient via the intravenous line.

A medical accessory 26 may be coupled to the accessory support 20. Asillustrated in FIG. 1, the medical accessory 26 comprises a fluidinfusion pump 26. The fluid infusion pump 26 may be fluidly coupled tothe intravenous fluid container to control the flow rate of theintravenous fluid to the patient. The type and configuration of medicalaccessory that may be coupled to or supported by the accessory support20 is not particularly limited. The medical accessory may comprise, byway of non-limiting example, an oxygen bottle holder, a fluid warmer, amonitor, a respirator, a physiological sensor, an oxygen bottle, aventilator, a cardiac monitor, a pulse oximeter, a non-invasive bloodpressure measuring device, a digital thermometer, a liquid oxygenmodule, a defibrillator, a respiratory rate measuring device and othermedical accessories.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the accessory support 20, such as post 22, canbe coupled to a wheeled base 34. One exemplary wheeled base 34 isillustrated in FIG. 1. The wheeled base 34 comprises wheels 36 thatpermit the accessory support 20 to be transported throughout thehealthcare facility in an upright position. Of course, the type ofwheeled base 34 is not particularly limited. In the illustratedembodiment, the post 22 is non-telescopic.

In alternative embodiments, it should also be appreciated that theaccessory support 20 may assume any suitable configuration, including apost 22′ that is telescopic, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. The telescopicpost 22′ comprises a bottom tube 28 coupled to a top tube 30, and alatching mechanism 32. The latching mechanism 32 is configured to fixthe position of the top tube 30 relative to the bottom tube 28.

In other embodiments, when the post is non-telescopic, the post may befoldable about one or more folding junctions between a folded positionand an extended position. In the extended position, the post has agreater length then when the post is in the folded position. Thus, thecaregiver can advantageously extend or fold the post based on the needsof the patient.

In still other embodiments, when the post is non-telescopic, the postmay comprise a first tube and a second tube adjacent the first tube andnot coaxial with the first tube. The first and second tubes may becoupled together by one or more post sliders. The post slider isconfigured to allow the second tube slide upward relative to the firsttube between a raised position and a lowered position. In the loweredposition, the first tube is generally parallel and coextensive with thesecond tube but not coaxial. In the raised position, the post has agreater length then when the post is in the lowered position. Thus, thecaregiver can advantageously slide the second tube to reach a totallength appropriate for the needs of the patient or caregiver.

The accessory support 20, such as posts 22, 22′ may comprise metal suchas stainless steel, or a composite material such as carbon fiber, or anyother material that provides sufficient rigidity to support medicalaccessories.

As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, in some instances the accessory support 20,illustrated as post 22, may be coupled to a patient transport chair 38.The patient transport chair 38 is adapted to allow a patient to betransported to different locations within a healthcare facility. Thepatient transport chair 38 comprises a chair frame 40, a seat 42supported thereon, a pair of armrests 44, a plurality of front wheels46, a plurality of rear wheels 48, a footrest 50, a pair of handles 52,a back rest 54, and a frame mount 56. It should be appreciated that thedesign of the patient transport chair 38 is not particularly limited,and may assume any suitable configuration. For example, the patienttransport chair 38 may also comprise a brake pedal, a stop pedal, anadditional footrest, and an oxygen bottle holder 58. Still otherfeatures may also be added to the patient transport chair 38.

Post 22, is configured to be removably retained within the frame mount56 of the patient transport chair 38. The frame mount 56 may engage thepost 22 such that the post 22 maintains its upright orientation. Theconfiguration of frame mount 56 is not particularly limited, and maycomprise a void or cavity that the post 22 rests within. Alternatively,the frame mount 56 may comprise screw threads that are complementarywith a set of threads that are disposed at the bottom of the post 22.Alternatively still, the frame mount 56 may be configured to releasablyengage the bottom of the post 22 to prevent rotational and/or axialmovement of the post 22 relative to the patient transport chair 38.

As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the accessory support 20 such as one ormore telescopic posts 22′, may alternatively be coupled to a patientsupport apparatus 60. In the illustrated embodiment, the patient supportapparatus 60 comprises a patient support deck 62, a support base 64 andan intermediate frame 66. The intermediate frame 66 is spaced above thesupport base 64. The patient support deck 62 is disposed on theintermediate frame 66. The patient support deck 62 comprises severalsections, some of which are pivotable relative to the intermediate frame66. The patient support deck 62 provides a surface upon which thepatient is supported.

The patient support deck 62, support base 64, and intermediate frame 66,each have a head end 68 and a foot end 70 corresponding to thedesignated placement of the patient's head and feet on the patientsupport apparatus 60. The construction of the patient support apparatus60 may take on any known or conventional design, and is not limited tothat specifically set forth above. In some instances, a mattress may bedisposed on the patient support deck 62 such that the patient restsdirectly on the mattress.

Side rails 72, 74, 76, 78 are supported by the support base 64. A firstside rail 72 is positioned at a right head end of the intermediate frame66. A second side rail 74 is positioned at a right foot end of theintermediate frame 66. A third side rail 76 is positioned at a left headend of the intermediate frame 66. A fourth side rail 78 is positioned ata left foot end of the intermediate frame 66. If the patient supportapparatus 60 is a stretcher or a cot, there may be fewer side rails. Theside rails 72, 74, 76, 78 are movable between a raised position in whichthey block ingress and egress into and out of the patient supportapparatus 60, and a lowered position in which they are not an obstacleto such ingress and egress. The side rails 72, 74, 76, 78 may also bemovable to one or more intermediate positions between the raisedposition and the lowered position. In still other configurations, thepatient support apparatus 60 may not comprise any side rails.

A headboard 80 and a footboard 82 are coupled to the intermediate frame66. In other embodiments, when the headboard 80 and footboard 82 areincluded, the headboard 80 and footboard 82 may be coupled to otherlocations on the patient support apparatus 60, such as the support base64. In still other embodiments, the patient support apparatus 60 doesnot comprise the headboard 80 and/or the footboard 82.

In the illustrated embodiment, the patient support apparatus 60 maycomprise wheels 36′. The wheels 36′ are coupled to the support base 64to facilitate transport of the patient support apparatus 60 over floorsurfaces. The wheels 36′ are arranged in each of four quadrants of thesupport base 64 adjacent to corners of the support base 64. In theembodiment shown, the wheels 36′ are able to rotate and swivel relativeto the support base 64 during transport. It should be understood thatvarious configurations of the wheels 36′ are contemplated. By way ofnon-limiting example, the wheels 36′ may be caster wheels,non-steerable, steerable, or combinations thereof. The wheels 36′ may bemovable between a stowed position for instances where the patientsupport apparatus 60 is not required to be transported and a deployedposition for when the patient support apparatus 60 is required to betransported. Additional wheels are also contemplated. In some cases, thepatient support apparatus 60 may not comprise any wheels 36′.

In the illustrated embodiment, the patient support apparatus 60 is ahospital bed. It is contemplated, however, that the patient supportapparatus 60 may be a stretcher, cot, table, or similar apparatusutilized in the care of a patient.

Referring to FIG. 2B, the headboard 80 comprises a post mount 84. In theillustrated embodiment, the post mount 84 is configured to engage thebottom of the accessory support 20, such as the bottom of the post 22′to prevent movement of the post 22′ relative to the patient supportapparatus 60. The post mount 84 may be configured to engage the post 22′to prevent axial or rotational movement of the post 22′ relative to theheadboard 80. The design of the post mount 84 will depend on theaccessory support 20 that will be engaged. Of course, it is alsocontemplated that the other portions of the patient support apparatus 60may comprise the post mount 84 including, but not limited to, the footboard, the side rails, one or more portions of the support base,intermediate frame, or patient support deck. Furthermore, it should beappreciated that a single patient support apparatus 60 may comprisemultiple post mounts 84 and, hence, may be coupled to multiple accessorysupports 20.

With reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, an alternative patient supportapparatus 60′ is provided. The patient support apparatus 60′ comprises apatient support deck 62′ and a support base 64′. Each of the supportbase 64′ and patient support deck 62′ have a head end 68′ and a foot end70′ corresponding to the designated placement of the patient's head andfeet on the patient support apparatus 60′.

As illustrated, patient support apparatus 60′ comprises at least one armassembly 86 pivotably mounted to the support base 64′ about a pivot axisA, such that each arm assembly 86 can independently assume a number ofdifferent rotational positions relative to the patient support deck 62′.In embodiments where multiple arm assemblies are present, it should beappreciated that the arm assemblies 86 may be linked with one or moretiming arms, such that they move in tandem with one another. It shouldalso be appreciated that the arm assemblies 86 may be coupled to otherportions of the patient support apparatus 60′ such as the intermediateframe.

In the illustrated embodiment, the arm assemblies 86 are mounted at thehead end 68′ of the support base 64′; however, it should be appreciatedthat the arm assemblies 86 may be mounted at other locations on thepatient support apparatus 60′ such as, by way of non-limiting example,the foot end 70′ of the support base 64′, or the head end 68′ of thepatient support deck 62′.

Throughout this disclosure, the terms ‘coupling’, ‘mounting’, ‘coupled’,‘mounted’, etc. are used interchangeably. In some cases, the terms referto semi-permanent connections created through the use of variousfasteners. In other cases, the terms refer to ‘quick-connections’configured to be easily connected and disconnected from one another.

The arm assemblies 86 may be configured to be rotatable relative to thesupport base 64′ into a transport position (see FIG. 4A) and apatient-care position (see FIG. 4B). The arm assemblies 86 each have afree end 88 corresponding to the end of the rotatable arm assemblies 86extending outward from the patient support apparatus 60′, as shown inFIGS. 4A and 4B. In the illustrated embodiment, a post mount 84′ iscoupled to the free end 88 of each arm assembly 86. In this embodiment,the accessory support 20, such as post 22, may be coupled to the postmount 84′. In the illustrated embodiment, the post mount 84′ is movablerelative to the head end 68′ of the patient support apparatus 60′ byvirtue of movement of the arm assembly 86 relative to the support base64′. However, it should be appreciated that the post mount 84 may becoupled to any suitable location on the arm assembly 86, and may assumeany suitable configuration.

In accordance with one embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 4A, whenthe arm assemblies 86 are in the transport position, the accessorysupport 20 coupled thereto is positioned longitudinally beyond the headend 68′ of the patient support apparatus 60′. It should be appreciatedthat in instances where the arm assembly is positioned at the foot end70′ of the support base 64′, the post 22 may be positionedlongitudinally beyond the foot end 70′ of the patient support apparatus60′. In contrast, in the transport position, the arm assemblies 86 andthe associated accessory support 20 may be substantially parallel with alongitudinal axis LA of the patient support apparatus 60′.

In the patient-care position, at least one of the arm assemblies 86extend transversely to the patient support apparatus 60′. In thisposition, the accessory supports 20 are spaced apart from the head end68′ of the patient support apparatus 60′ and, hence, medical accessoriescoupled thereto are spaced away from a patient's head. In someinstances, when in the patient-care position, the accessory support 20may be positioned longitudinally between the head end 68′ and the footend 70′ of the patient support apparatus 60′.

Generally speaking, when the arm assemblies 86 are in the patient-careposition, the accessory support 20 is positioned at a convenientlocation relative to the patient support apparatus 60′ to facilitatecare of the patient, whereas, when the arm assemblies 86 are in thetransport position, the accessory support 20 is positioned substantiallyin-line with the patient support apparatus 60′, but not necessarilyspaced away from the head end 68′ of the patient support apparatus 60′.

In certain embodiments, when the arm assemblies 86 are in the transportposition (FIG. 4A), the width profile of the patient support apparatus60′, including the arm assemblies 86, is smaller than the width profileof the patient support apparatus 60′ when the arm assemblies 86 are inthe patient-care position (FIG. 4B). The smaller width profile of thepatient support apparatus 60′ in the transport position facilitatestransport of the patient support apparatus 60′ through narrow doors orelevator entrances. In addition, when the arm assemblies 86 are in thepatient-care position, the proximity of the accessory support 20, andthe medical accessories supported thereon, are spaced away from the headend 68′ of the patient support apparatus 60′ and, accordingly, away fromthe head of the patient. As will be appreciated, the arm assembly 86 mayalso be configured to pivot to any number of intermediate positionsbetween the transport position and the patient-care position. It shouldbe further understood that the phrases “transport position” and“patient-care position” are used to facilitate description of thepositions of the various arm assemblies, and do not limit the potentialuses of the arm assemblies. More specifically, it should be understoodthat a caregiver may find it advantageous to move the patient supportapparatus while the arm assemblies are in the patient-care position ormay find it advantageous to keep the arm assemblies in the transportposition even while the patient support apparatus is stationary.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, in the exemplary embodiment, each armassembly 86 comprises an arm frame 90, a pivot member 92, and astationary member 94. In the illustrated embodiment, each arm frame 90is substantially triangular in shape and comprises radial frame members96 that are coupled to the pivot member 92 at a first end and coupled toa mounting arm member 98 at a second end. The pivot member 92 isrotatably coupled to the stationary member 94 such that the pivot member92 and arm frame 90 coupled to the pivot member 92 can rotate about thepivot axis A. The stationary member 94 is coupled to the support base64′. In some instances, by way of non-limiting example, the stationarymember 94 may be integrally formed with the support base 64′ by welding.It should be appreciated that other configurations of the arm assemblies86 are also contemplated so long as they enable movement of the postmount 84′, i.e. the accessory support 20, relative to the patientsupport apparatus 60′.

As shown in FIG. 4C, in certain embodiments, the arm assembly 86comprises a locking device 100 configured to selectively lock the armassembly 86 in one or more of the positions such as the transportposition, the patient-care position, or any number of intermediatepositions.

While the configuration of the locking device 100 is not particularlylimited in the illustrated embodiment, the locking device 100 comprisesa plunger mechanism 102. The plunger mechanism 102 may comprise aplunger housing 104 coupled to the pivot member 92 and a pin 106disposed within the plunger housing 104 for selective engagement withone or more notches 108, 110 of the stationary member 94. By way ofnon-limiting example, the plunger housing 104 may be coupled to thepivot member 92 by welding such that the plunger housing 104 and pivotmember 92 are fixed relative to each other.

The plunger mechanism 102 locks when the pin 106 extends through thepivot member 92 to engage one of the notches such as, by way ofnon-limiting example, a first notch 108 in the stationary member 94, asshown in FIG. 4C. The first notch 108 may be substantially the samesize, or the same size, as the pin 106 such that when the pin 106engages the first notch 108, the pivot member 92 is fixed relative tothe stationary member 94. If the pin 106 does not engage a notch in thestationary member 94, the pivot member 92 is permitted to rotate withrespect to the stationary member 94. It is further contemplated that thestationary member 94 may comprise a second notch 110. In instances wherethe second notch 110 is present, the first notch 108 may correspond tothe transport position and the second notch 110 may correspond to thepatient-care position. In this manner, a caregiver can position and lockthe arm assemblies 86 and corresponding accessory support 20 as desired.Additionally, the stationary member 94 may comprise any suitable numberof notches to ensure that the arm assemblies 86 are lockable in anynumber of desired positions. Of course, other configurations of thelocking device 100 are also contemplated.

In one embodiment, the locking device comprises a friction discmechanism described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/267,793 whichis hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As an alternative, or in addition to the locking device 100 describedabove, the arm assembly may comprise a clutch device configured torestrict pivotal movement of the arm assembly relative to the supportbase. The clutch device may retain the arm assembly in the desiredposition unless a predetermined frictional force is exceeded. Variousclutch device configurations are contemplated.

In an alternative embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5C, an armassembly 86′ comprises a mounting member 112, a pivot linkage 118, and aswing member 120 coupled to the pivot linkage 118. The mounting member112 is configured to couple the arm assembly 86′ to the support base 64of the patient support apparatus 60 via flanges 114. With reference toFIG. 5C, the pivot linkage 118 is configured to couple to the swingmember 120 and allow rotation of the swing member about a pivot axis A′.As shown in FIG. 5A, the swing member 120 further comprises an accessorysupport mount 122 configured to support and retain the accessory support20, such as a mounting apparatus 124 (described below) in an uprightposition.

In the illustrated embodiment, with reference to FIG. 5A, one armassembly 86′ is shown coupled to the patient support apparatus 60. It isto be appreciated that two, or more, arm assemblies 86′ may be coupledto the patient support apparatus 60 in a similar manner. Additionally,it should be appreciated that the arm assemblies may include suitableclutching mechanisms or locking mechanisms to retain the arm assembliesin desirable positions.

With respect to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the arm assembly 86′ is operablebetween a transport position (FIG. 5A) and a patient-care position (FIG.5B). In the transport position (FIG. 5A), the width profile of thepatient support apparatus 60, including arm assembly 86′, is smallerthan the width profile of the patient support apparatus 60 when the armassembly 86′ is in the patient-care position (FIG. 5B). The smallerwidth profile of the patient support apparatus 60 in the transportposition facilitates transport of the patient support apparatus 60through narrow doors or elevator entrances. In addition, when the armassembly 86′ is in the patient-care position, the proximity of theaccessory support 20, and the medical accessories supported thereon, arespaced away from the head end 68 of the patient support apparatus 60and, accordingly, away from the head of the patient. As will beappreciated, the arm assembly 86′ may also be configured to pivot to anynumber of intermediate positions between the transport position and thepatient-care position.

In the patient-care position (FIG. 5B) the arm assembly 86′ extendstransversely to the patient support apparatus 60. In addition, when thearm assembly 86′ is in the patient-care position, the swing member 120is neither parallel, nor substantially parallel, with the longitudinalaxis LA′ of the patient support apparatus 60. It is contemplated that insome instances the mounting apparatus 124 is positioned between the headend 68 and the foot end 70 when then arm assembly 86′ is in thepatient-care position.

Referring to FIG. 5A, the accessory support mount 122 is adjacent a freeend 88′ of the swing member 120. It is contemplated that the accessorysupport mount 122 may be coupled to any suitable location on the patientsupport apparatus 60 or the arm assembly 86′.

Referring now to FIG. 6A, an alternative embodiment of an accessorysupport 20 is shown as mounting apparatus 124. The mounting apparatus124 comprises a combination of interfaces configured to mechanically,fluidly, and/or electrically couple to medical accessories 26, 26′ thatare placed adjacent to the housing 142. In the context of thisdisclosure, electrically coupled means the medical accessory 26, 26′ iscoupled to the mounting apparatus 124 such that the medical accessory26, 26′ may receive electrical power from the mounting apparatus 124and/or exchange data with a controller of the mounting apparatus 124 orother associated medical accessories coupled thereto. The electricalcoupling may be implemented through wiring, direct electrical contactthrough interfacing electrical conductors, and/or through wirelesstransfer, such as electromagnetic, capacitive, and/or inductive wirelesstransfer. Referring to FIG. 6A, the mounting apparatus 124 may compriseany combination of mechanical interfaces 146, data interfaces 148, powerinterfaces 150, and/or fluid interfaces 152 suitable for the expectedutilization of the mounting apparatus 124. Thus, when one of the medicalaccessories 26, 26′ is placed adjacent to the housing 142 of themounting apparatus 124 and engages the one or more interfaces, themedical accessory 26, 26′ may be mechanically supported by the housing142 (the mechanical interface 146), the medical accessory 26, 26′ may becoupled to the housing 142 in a manner suitable to exchange data (thedata interface 148), the medical accessory 26, 26′ may be coupled to thehousing 142 in a manner suitable to provide power to the medicalaccessory 26, 26′ (the power interface 150), and/or the medicalaccessory 26, 26′ may be coupled to the housing 142 in a manner suitableto provide fluid to the medical accessory 26 (the fluid interface 152).

In some instances, the medical accessory 26, 26′ may receive power fromthe power interface 150 to power a communication device of the medicalaccessory 26, 26′. The communication device may provide short-rangewireless data exchange with the controller of the mounting apparatus 124or with communication devices of other medical accessories coupledthereto. Examples of such short-range wireless communication include,but are not limited to, Bluetooth, Zigbee, near field communication(NFC), Wi-Fi, infrared, or the like.

The mounting apparatus 124 may be coupled to the accessory support mount122 or other suitable structures described throughout. The exemplarymounting apparatus 124 comprises a housing 142. In the illustratedembodiment, the housing 142 has a polygonal shape. The housing 142comprises number of flat, or substantially flat, faces 144. In theillustrated embodiment, the housing 142 has the shape of a trapezoidalprism, and hence, has four faces 144. However, it is contemplated thatthe housing 142 may assume any suitable shape, including rectangular andcylindrical shapes, or any other suitable shape for supporting andinterfacing with medical accessories 26, 26′. The housing 142 of themounting apparatus 124 may comprise plastic, metal, such as stainlesssteel, or a composite material such as, by way of non-limiting example,carbon fiber, or any other material that provides sufficient rigidity tosupport one or more medical accessories.

The mounting apparatus 124 is configured to couple to the post mount 84′or accessory support mount 122 of the arm assemblies 86, 86′ (FIGS. 4Aand 5A). Alternatively, the mounting apparatus 124 may replace the post22 in other configurations and, as such, may be mounted or coupled tothe wheeled base 34 (FIG. 1), the headboard 80 of the patient supportapparatus 60 (FIG. 2A), or the frame mount 56 of the patient transportchair 38 (FIG. 3B). Moreover, it is contemplated that the accessorysupport, such as post 22 or mounting apparatus 124, may be mounted orcoupled to any location on the patient support apparatus and patienttransport chair. Further, the accessory support, such as post 22 ormounting apparatus 124, may be mounted or coupled to any location of anyother tables, chairs, beds, and boom stands found within a healthcarefacility. In still other embodiments, the mounting apparatus 124 may becoupled to a wall.

With continued reference to FIG. 6A, the mounting apparatus 124 may beconfigured to rotate about its longitudinal axis AA (not shown extendingall the way through mounting apparatus 124 for clarity purposes)relative to the accessory support mount 122 of the arm assembly 86′.This rotation about the longitudinal axis AA can allow the caregiver toorient the different faces 144 of the mounting apparatus 124 as desireddepending on the types of interfaces necessary for the medical accessoryto be mounted to the mounting apparatus.

Each mechanical interface 146 is configured to mechanically couple oneof the medical accessories 26, 26′ to the mounting apparatus 124 in asufficient manner to support the medical accessory 26, 26′ on themounting apparatus 124. In other words, the mechanical interface 146ensures that the mounting apparatus 124 supports the weight of themedical accessory 26, 26′. In certain embodiments, the mechanicalinterface 146 can ensure that the medical accessory 26, 26′ coupled withthe mechanical interface 146 can be lifted, but is otherwise supported.For example, when the medical accessory 26, 26′ is coupled with themechanical interface 146, the mechanical interface 146 may constrainrelative moment of the medical accessory 26, 26′ to permit only lateralmovement (one degree of freedom), upward movement, pivoting upward anddownward movement, or lateral movement and pivoting movement, relativeto the mounting apparatus 124. This may allow the caregiver to rest themedical accessory 26,26′ on the mounting apparatus 124 and pivot themedical accessory 26, 26′ down until the data, power and/or fluidinterfaces are engaged without risk of dropping the medical accessory26, 26′. In other words, the mechanical interface 146 may preventdownward movement (i.e., dropping) of the medical accessory 26, 26′.Moreover, the mechanical interface 146 ensures concurrent movementbetween the mounting apparatus 124 and the medical accessory 26, 26′attached thereto. This ensures that caregivers can mount one or moremedical accessories 26, 26′ to the mounting apparatus 124 and themedical accessory 26, 26′ will not accidentally become dislodged andfall.

Throughout this disclosure, the term ‘support’ and its derivatives areused to describe states where some or all of the gravitational forcesacting on one or more components are managed through use of otherintermediate components. For example, the medical accessory may besupported by the mounting apparatus. Such description should beinterpreted to mean that a portion of the gravitational force acting onthe medical accessory is transferred to the mounting apparatus. Itshould be appreciated that, in some cases, the intermediate componentsmay only partially support the weight of other components. For instance,during the process of positioning the medical accessory adjacent themounting apparatus such that the weight will ultimately be supportedwholly by the mounting apparatus. The caregiver and the mountingapparatus may each partially support the weight of the medicalaccessory. Throughout this disclosure, the term ‘supported’ should beinterpreted to mean ‘wholly-supported’ and/or ‘partially-supported’ asdescribed in these exemplary scenarios.

As will be described below, each mechanical interface 146 may be furtherconfigured to lock one of the medical accessories 26, 26′ into aposition relative to the mounting apparatus 124. In such embodiments,the mechanical interface 146 may be configured to support the weight ofthe medical accessory 26, 26′ both in the unlocked arrangement and thelocked arrangement.

As will be described in greater detail below, the mechanical interface146 can be configured in a number of different ways to facilitatereleasable coupling of medical accessories 26, 26′ to the accessorysupport, such as the mounting apparatus 124.

In some embodiments, the mechanical interface 146 may be establishedwith a first component and a second component of a coupling system aswill be described in further detail below.

The data interface 148 is configured to allow exchange of data betweenmedical accessories 26, 26′ coupled to the mounting apparatus 124 and/orthe controller of the mounting apparatus 124 that will be described indetail below. In other embodiments, the data interface 148 may beconfigured to allow exchange of data between medical accessories 26, 26′and the associated patient support apparatus or other device. When oneof the medical accessories 26, 26′ are placed adjacent to the mountingapparatus 124, the medical accessory 26, 26′ may be positioned adjacentto, or in contact with, the data interface 148. The data interface 148may be configured to allow exchange of data by any suitable transmissionmodality or protocol between the medical accessory 26, 26′, thecontroller of the mounting apparatus 124, and/or the patient supportapparatus. Data transmission may occur using any suitable transmissiontechnique, such as electrical, radio frequency, optical, andcombinations thereof. Thus, through the data interface 148, medicalaccessories 26, 26′ can transmit and/or receive various types ofinformation to and/or from the controller, the patient support apparatusor other medical device so as to exchange information, controloperation, or otherwise facilitate care of the patient using the medicalaccessories 26, 26′. For example, infusion pump 26 can communicate datathrough data interface 148 relating to infusion rate, which cansubsequently be transferred to the controller and/or patient supportapparatus, and displayed as may be useful on one or more display devicesof the patient support apparatus and/or mounting apparatus 124. By wayof non-limiting example, the data interface 148 may comprise a UniversalSerial Bus (USB) interface, an RFID interface, an optical interface, aserial port interface, a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), orIEEE 1394 interface. Still other types of data interfaces arecontemplated.

In one embodiment, the data interface 148 may be implemented with afemale USB port, and at least one of the medical accessories 26, 26′having a male USB connector that is configured to couple to and engagethe female USB port when the medical accessory 26 is placed adjacent tothe mounting apparatus 124. Alternatively, the data interface 148 maycomprise a cord and plug connection configured to electrically couplethe medical accessory 26, 26′ to the patient support apparatus and/orcontroller of the mounting apparatus 124. Alternatively still, the datainterface 148 of the mounting apparatus 124 is configured to enable awireless communication bridge between the controller of the mountingapparatus 124, the patient support apparatus, or other device and themedical accessory 26, such as with Bluetooth, Zigbee, NFC, Wi-Fi,infrared, RFID, or the like. With reference to FIG. 6A, one or morecables 125 may be routed through the swing member 120 and accessorysupport mount 122 of the arm assembly 86′ such that data can beexchanged between the patient support apparatus and the medicalaccessory 26, 26′ via the cables 125.

With reference to FIG. 13, each power interface 150, if present, isconfigured to couple medical accessories 26, 26′ that are placedadjacent to, or in contact with, the mounting apparatus 124 to a sourceof electrical power via a power distribution system. Thus, through thepower interface 150, the mounting apparatus 124 may provide sufficientoperating power to the medical accessory 26, 26′ coupled thereto.

With reference to FIG. 13, the power distribution system 151 may beconfigured to provide direct current (DC) and/or alternating current(AC) to medical accessory 26, 26′. The power distribution system 151comprises at least one of an AC power supply 153 and a DC power supply155. In one embodiment, the power distribution system 151 is coupled tothe controller 149 of the mounting apparatus 124 and is configured tooutput AC and/or DC power based on power needs of the medicalaccessories 26, 26′ coupled to the mounting apparatus 124. For example,when multiple medical accessories 26, 26′ are coupled to the mountingapparatus 124, the power distribution system 151 may provide AC power toat least one medical accessory 26, 26′ and DC power to at least oneother medical accessory 26, 26′ based on the requirements/configurationof each medical accessory. In some embodiments, the controller 149 maycontrol the power distribution system 151 to selectively supply eachmedical accessory 26, 26′ with AC or DC power based on the identity ofeach medical accessory 26, 26′ as will be described in detail below.

When the power distribution system 151 has only a DC power supply 155,the power distribution system 151 may be referred to as a DC powerdistribution system. Likewise, when the power distribution system 151has only an AC power supply 153, the power distribution 151 system maybe referred to as an AC power distribution system.

In some instances, the power interface 150 may comprise an AC powerinterface for providing AC power to the medical accessory 26, 26′ fromthe power distribution system 151. Alternatively, the power interface150 may comprise a DC power interface for providing DC power to medicalaccessory 26, 26′ from the power distribution system 151.

In one embodiment, the DC power supply 155 is a battery. The battery maybe integrated within the mounting apparatus 124. Alternatively, thebattery may be disposed onboard the patient support apparatus and may bepart of a power system of the patient support apparatus. In suchinstances, the battery may be coupled to the power interfaces 150 of themounting apparatus 124 through electrical conductors 127, as shown inFIG. 6A, which are routed through the swing member 120 and accessorysupport mount 122 of the arm assembly 86′. For example, the electricalconductors 127 may have one end coupled to the power interface 150 andthe other end coupled to the power system of the patient supportapparatus. The power system of the patient support apparatus maycomprise an interface for connecting the battery to an external powersupply, such as an electrical outlet, charging station, or the like. Ofcourse, the battery may not be connected to an external power supply,but instead may be readily replaced as the charge depletes. The batterymay be primary (non-rechargeable) battery or a secondary (rechargeable)battery.

Furthermore, the power distribution system may comprise an inductivecoupler to provide power to the medical accessory 26, 26′ at the powerinterface 150. For example, the power interface 150 and the medicalaccessory 26, 26′ may comprise plates configured with inductive coilswhereby electromagnetic induction occurs when the plates are placed inproximity to one another and overlap. When the medical accessory 26, 26′is positioned adjacent to the mounting apparatus 124, the medicalaccessory 26, 26′ may receive power from the inductive coupler. Themedical accessory 26, 26′ may comprise any suitable components to enablereception of power from the inductive coupler. In certain embodiments,the mounting apparatus 124 may include inductive couplers of varioussizes, depending on the power needs of the medical accessories 26, 26′.

It is further contemplated that in some instances the power interface150 may be configured to provide power for devices other than medicalaccessories 26, 26′ such as, by way of non-limiting example, cellphones, laptops, tablets, and other portable electronic devices. Any ofthe techniques described herein with respect to the providing power tothe medical accessories 26, 26′ may apply fully to such other devices.

The fluid interface 152 is configured to couple medical accessories 26to a source of fluid. Each of the fluid interfaces 152 may be used toprovide one of the medical accessories 26, 26′ that are placed adjacentto, or in contact with, the mounting apparatus 124 with one or morefluids configured to flow through and move through fluid lines 129 suchas one or more liquids or gases. This may be useful when the medicalaccessory is a respirator assembly that channels oxygen to a patient'sairways, where the medical accessory is a pneumatic tool powered bycompressed air, or where the medical accessory is an irrigation systemthat provides water during medical care. By way of non-limiting example,the source of fluid is configured to provide at least one fluid selectedfrom the group comprising a medical gas, a working gas, a liquid forintravenous delivery, a working liquid, and combinations thereof to themedical accessory 26, 26′.

The fluid interface 152 may assume any configuration suitable to providefluid to the medical accessories 26, 26′. In some instances, the fluidinterface 152 comprises one of a male port and a female port such thatthe one of the male port and the female port are complementary with afluid port on at least one of the medical accessories 26, 26′ such thatthe medical accessory 26, 26′ is coupled to the source of fluid throughthe fluid interface 152 of the mounting apparatus 124. It iscontemplated the source of fluid may be disposed at any suitablelocation, such as a tank within the mounting apparatus 124, onboard thepatient support apparatus, or provided by an adjacent headwall. Incertain embodiments the fluid interface 152 of the mounting apparatus124 may be interconnected to the fluid system of the patient supportapparatus. Thus, fluid lines 129 may be routed through the swing member120 and accessory support mount 122 of the arm assembly 86′ to the fluidsystem of the patient support apparatus.

With continued reference to FIG. 6A, the mechanical interface 146, thedata interface 148, the power interface 150, and/or the fluid interface152 may be arranged in a manner to provide coupling sets 156, which arededicated to receive one of the medical accessories 26, 26′. Any numberof coupling sets 156 may be provided on the mounting apparatus 124 (orthe first and second components described below). Furthermore, thesecoupling sets 156 may be arranged in any suitable manner on the mountingapparatus 124 to provide ease of use and convenience to the caregiver.

In the illustrated embodiment, each coupling set 156 is configured to beengaged directly or indirectly by one of the medical accessories 26,26′. More specifically, the different interfaces 146, 148, 150, 152 ineach coupling set 156 are advantageously spaced and/or oriented to allowcoupling of the medical accessory 26 to all interfaces 146, 148, 150,152 in each single coupling set 156. Additionally, the coupling sets 156may be spaced and/or oriented about the housing 142 from one anothersuch that a user can easily couple the medical accessories 26 to all ofthe different coupling sets 156, i.e., the coupling sets 156 are spacedfar enough apart such that when a medical accessory 26 is coupled to afirst coupling set 156′, that medical accessory 26 does not prevent auser from coupling the second medical accessory 26′ to a second couplingset 156″ adjacent to the first coupling set 156′.

Each coupling set 156 may comprise the power interface 150, the datainterface 148, the fluid interface 152, and/or the mechanical interface146. It is contemplated that certain coupling sets 156 may comprisefewer than all of the mechanical interface 146, the fluid interface 152,the data interface 148, and the power interface 150. This isadvantageous as certain medical accessories may not require one or moreof a data interface 148, a power interface 150, a fluid interface 152,and a mechanical interface 146. For example, monitors may not require afluid interface 152 and oxygen bottle holders may not require a powerinterface 150.

Each coupling set 156 on the mounting apparatus 124 may comprise themechanical interface 146 in one embodiment. In such a configuration, bycoupling the medical accessory 26, 26′ to the mechanical interface 146in the coupling set 156, the medical accessory 26, 26′ can be guidedinto proper engagement with the power interface 150, the data interface148, and/or the fluid interface 152. For example, if the medicalaccessory 26 is coupled to the mechanical interface 146, the mechanicalinterface 146 can ensure that the medical accessory 26, 26′ properlyaligns with an inductive coupler in the same coupling set 156. As such,the medical accessory 26, 26′ can be properly powered by the inductivecoupler, by way of sufficient overlap with the inductive coupler, asdescribed above, without interfering with inductive coupler transmissionthat may exist from other coupling sets 156. If the medical accessory26, 26′ requires engagement with the data interface 148, the mechanicalinterface 146 can ensure that the medical accessory 26, 26′ properlyaligns with the data interface 148 such that the medical accessory 26,26′ can effectively transfer data through the data interface 148.

With reference to FIG. 13, the controller 149 may include one or moreprocessors, or microprocessors, for processing instructions stored inmemory 157 to control operation of the patient support apparatus and/ormedical accessories. Such instructions may be any of the functions,algorithms or techniques described herein performed by the controller149. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 149 may comprise oneor more microcontrollers, field programmable gate arrays, systems on achip, discrete circuitry, and/or other suitable hardware, software, orfirmware that is capable of carrying out the functions described herein.The controller 149 may be carried on-board the mounting apparatus 124 orpatient support apparatus. Alternatively, the controller 149 may belocated remote from the mounting apparatus 124 and the patient supportapparatus, and communicate with the mounting apparatus 124 and/orpatient support apparatus through a wired or wireless connection. In oneembodiment, the controller 149 is disposed within the housing of themounting apparatus 124. In other embodiments, the controller 149 ismounted to the faces 144 of the mounting apparatus 124. The controller149 may comprise one or more subcontrollers configured to control thepatient support apparatus and/or all of the medical accessories 26, 26′coupled to the mounting apparatus 124, collectively. Alternatively, thecontroller 149 may comprise one or more subcontrollers for the patientsupport apparatus individually, and for certain types of medicalaccessories 26, 26′ coupled to the mounting apparatus 124.

The controller 149 may receive data from the patient support apparatusand/or medical accessories 26, 26′ via the data interface 148. While themounting apparatus 124 in the illustrated embodiment is shown to includethe memory 157, controller 149, and power distribution system 151, itshould be appreciated that the patient support apparatus may similarcomponents and function in a similar manner. The data received from thepatient support apparatus and/or medical accessories 26, 26′ may includepatient data obtained by the patient support apparatus and/or medicalaccessories 26, 26′, and operating parameters of the patient supportapparatus and/or medical accessories 26, 26′. The patient data mayinclude, by way of non-limiting example, blood pressure, temperature,pulse rate, respiratory rate, blood oxygen saturation level, patientweight, etc. The operating parameters may include, by way ofnon-limiting example, medical accessory ID, input voltage, inputcurrent, medical accessory status, output power, temperature, etc.

The controller 149 may be configured to control supply of at least oneof AC power and DC power from the power distribution system 151 of themounting apparatus 124 to a medical 26, 26′ accessory coupled thereto.The medical accessory 26, 26′ may be coupled to the mounting apparatus124 such that the medical accessory 26, 26′ is supported by the mountingapparatus 124 to establish both the data interface 148 and the powerinterface 150. In other embodiments, the medical accessory 26, 26′ maybe coupled to, supported by, and electrically coupled to the mountingapparatus 124 via the first and second components 160″, 210″ of thecoupling system to establish a data and power interface as will bedescribed in further detail below.

The controller 149 may be configured to communicate with the medicalaccessory 26, 26′ to determine how to appropriately power the medicalaccessory 26, 26′. For example, the controller 149 may determine whethermedical accessory 26, 26′ is configured to accept AC or DC power.Determining whether the medical accessory 26, 26′ is configured toaccept AC or DC power may further comprise communicating data indicativeof the type of power required by the medical accessory 26, 26′ betweenthe medical accessory and the controller 149 through the data interface148.

In some embodiments, the controller 149 may determine the identity ofthe medical accessory 26, 26′ for power configuration and selectionpurposes. The identity may be any characteristic or data that isindicative of the characteristics or electrical requirements of thatmedical accessory 26, 26′. For example, the controller 149 may determinea serial number or unique ID of the medical accessory, and based on thatidentity, determine the input voltage, input operating frequency, and/orinput current required by the medical accessory 26, 26′. Thiscommunication can be established between the medical accessory and thecontroller 149 through the data interface 148 or other accessorysupport.

When the controller 149 determines the medical accessory 26, 26′identity, the controller 149 may compare the medical accessory ID to alook-up table stored in the memory 157 to determine the electricalrequirements of that medical accessory 26, 26′. In other examples, thecontroller 149 may determine the electrical requirements of the medicalaccessory 26, 26′ on-the-fly using analytical techniques. For example,the controller 149 may enable the medical accessory 26, 26′ to consumepower initially by enabling the power distribution system 151 to providesuch power having characteristics with variable range. Depending on theactual power and characteristics of power consumed by the medicalaccessory 26, 26′, the controller 149 may detect such characteristicsand instruct the power distribution system 151 to provide power havingcharacteristics commensurate with the detected actual power consumed bythe medical accessory 26, 26′. This may be done without storinginformation about the medical accessory 26, 26′ in memory 157. However,once the power characteristics are detected, the controller 149 maystore the detected characteristics in memory 157 for later use.

Any communication protocol suitable to exchange data between the medicalaccessory 26, 26′ and the controller 149 may be used. By way ofnon-limiting example, a 1-wire communication protocol may be used overthe data interface to communicate the data indicative of the type ofpower required by the medical accessory between the medical accessory26, 26′ and the controller 149. In this manner, the controller 149 candetermine the medical accessory 26, 26′ and the type of power requiredby the medical accessory 26, 26′ while the medical accessory 26, 26′ isnot powered. Of course, such communication protocols may be used totransmit data for purposes other than determining the type of powerrequired by the medical accessory 26, 26′.

Once the controller 149 determines whether the medical accessory 26, 26′is configured to accept AC or DC power based on the identity of themedical accessory, the controller 149 is configured to control the powerdistribution system 151 to supply the medical accessory 26, 26′ with ACand DC power from the AC or DC power supplies 153, 155 of the powerdistribution system 151. In some embodiments, when the medical accessory26, 26′ is mechanically coupled to, supported by, and electricallycoupled (i.e., power and data interfaces established) to the mountingapparatus 124 via the first and second components 160″, 210″ of thecoupling system, the controller 149 may supply power from powerdistribution system 151 via the power interfaces of the first and/orsecond components 160″, 210″.

Similarly, the controller 149 may control the power distribution system151 to supply the medical accessory 26, 26′ with the appropriate inputvoltage and/or input current in accordance with the data indicative ofthe voltage and/or current required by the medical accessory 26, 26′. Itshould be appreciated that some medical accessories may be configured toonly accept one type of power, i.e., AC or DC, and in some cases,certain medical accessories contemplated for use with this system may befree from an AC-DC converter. For example, the coupling system mayinclude two or more medical accessories, one being free from an AC-DCconverter and one including an AC-DC converter.

As described above, DC power may be supplied to medical accessories 26,26′ from the power distribution system 151 via the battery. Withreference to FIG. 22, in some embodiments, the battery may be part of anintelligent battery system 426. The intelligent battery system 426 maycomprise two or more battery modules 428. By way of non-limitingexample, the intelligent battery system 426 may comprise from one toten, from two to eight, or from four to six battery modules, such as 12Vbattery modules. In some embodiments, the battery system comprises four12V battery modules 428.

As shown in FIG. 22, each battery module 428 comprises at least one cell430. In the illustrated embodiment, each battery module 428 comprisesfour cells 430, with the cells 430 being connected in series.Alternatively, the cells 430 may be connected in parallel or series andparallel.

The battery modules 428 may be connected in series, parallel, or seriesand parallel based on the voltage and current requirements of themedical accessories coupled to the mounting apparatus. The intelligentbattery 426 system may be coupled to the controller to provide variouslevels of DC voltage depending on the requirements of the medicalaccessory. For example, if the controller determines that the medicalaccessory requires 12V, then the controller will ensure that theintelligent battery system 426 supplies 12V to the medical accessory. Ifthe controller determines that the medical accessory requires 48V, thecontroller will ensure that the intelligent battery system 426 supplies48V from the intelligent battery system 426 to the medical accessory. Ofcourse, it is contemplated that each battery module may be configured atvarious voltages other than 12V.

In some embodiments, the intelligent battery 151 system may comprise aprinted circuit board (PCB) 432 configured to selectively connect thebattery modules 428 in series, parallel, or series and parallel.

In other embodiments, the intelligent battery system may comprise aregulator that up-converts or down-converts the voltage output by thebattery modules based on the requirements of the medical accessory.

Referring again to FIG. 13, the controller 149 may control the powerdistribution system 151 to supply power from each battery module of theintelligent battery system to each medical accessory coupled to themounting apparatus 124. For example, if the controller 149 determinesthat three medical accessories are coupled to the mounting apparatusthat each require 12V, then the controller 149 may control the powerdistribution system 151 to supply power to each medical accessory from aseparate 12V battery module of the intelligent battery system.

Likewise, the controller 149 may determine the electrical current orfrequency requirements of each medical accessory and control the powerdistribution system 151 to vary the electrical current or frequency ofpower supplied to the medical device from the intelligent battery systembased on the determined requirements.

In other embodiments, the medical accessory 26, 26′ coupled to themounting apparatus 124 may be a battery. When the medical accessory 26,26′ is the battery, the battery may be in communication with the powerdistribution system 151 such that the battery supplements and/orenhances the power distribution system 151. In this manner, thecontroller 149 may control the battery to supply power to other medicalaccessories coupled to the mounting apparatus 124 via the powerdistribution system 151. Moreover, the controller 149 may control thepower distribution system 151 to supply power to the other medicalaccessories by some combination of the battery coupled to the mountingapparatus 124 and the AC and/or DC power supplies 153, 155. Thus, thecontroller 149 may control the power distribution system 151 to supplypower to the other medical accessories by only the battery coupled tothe mounting apparatus 124, only the AC and/or DC power supplies 153,155, or both the battery coupled to the mounting apparatus 124 and theAC and/or DC power supplies 153, 155.

In some embodiments, the controller 149 is configured to monitor theoperating parameters of the patient support apparatus and/or medicalaccessories coupled to the mounting apparatus 124 while they aresupplied with power by the power distribution system 151. The controller149 may be configured to compare the operating parameters such as, byway of non-limiting example, medical accessory status, temperature,and/or output power, to predetermined threshold values such that if oneor more of the predetermined threshold values has been reached orexceeded, the controller 149 controls the power distribution system 151to cease supplying power to the patient support apparatus and/or medicalaccessories. The predetermined threshold values may be stored in thememory 157 of the mounting apparatus 124. In some embodiments, inresponse to one or more of the predetermined threshold values beingreached or exceeded the controller 149 may control the powerdistribution system 151 to vary the input voltage and/or input currentuntil the operating parameters drop below the predetermined thresholdvalues. In still other embodiments, in response to one or more of thepredetermined threshold values being reached or exceeded, the controller149 may output a signal to alert the caregiver that the medicalaccessory requires maintenance. The alert may be audible and/or visualsuch as, for example, a visual alert displayed on a display unit thatwill be described in detail below.

It is further contemplated that the mounting apparatus may comprise adisplay unit (not shown). The display unit may comprise a touchscreendisplay screen and/or buttons on a housing around a display screen. Thedisplay unit may be operable to display patient data and a plurality oficons that are selectable using capacitive touch to control the patientsupport apparatus and/or medical accessories. The patient data maycorrespond to data communicated to the display unit from the controller.In some embodiments, the display unit may be operable to the display thepatient data and the plurality of icons at the same time. In otherembodiments, the display unit may be operable to display the patientdata and the plurality of icons at different times. When buttons areprovided on the housing around the display screen, the buttons maycontrol dedicated functions of the patient support apparatus and/ormedical accessories that are coupled to the mounting apparatus. In someembodiments, the functions associated with the buttons may change inresponse to changes to the information shown on the display screen. Insuch embodiments, indicia regarding active functions currentlyassociated with the buttons may be shown on the display screen near thebuttons.

The display unit may be coupled to the mounting apparatus by themechanical interface, the data interface, and/or the power interfacedescribed above, or optionally with the first and second componentsdescribed below. In this manner, the display unit may be mechanicallycoupled to the mounting apparatus, receive data from the patient supportapparatus and/or medical accessories coupled to mounting apparatus, andelectrically powered by the mounting apparatus. In some embodiments, thedisplay unit may be mechanically coupled to the mounting apparatus by anadjustable display arm. The adjustable display arm can be a tilt andswivel arm. In other variations, the display unit can be integrated intoone of the faces of the mounting apparatus.

In some embodiments, the display unit be positioned at other locations,such as on the patient support apparatus. When the display unit is onthe patient support apparatus, the display unit may be used to controlthe medical accessories coupled to the patient support apparatus and/ormounting apparatus.

It should be appreciated that the display unit and/or other medicalaccessories may be mounted to the mounting apparatus with a torquelimiting feature. When present, the torque limiting feature preventsdamage to the medical accessories caused from inadvertent collisionstherewith. In other words, if the caregiver is pushing the mountingapparatus down a corridor and the display mounted thereto accidentallycatches a doorway or other obstacle, the torque-limiting feature willallow some give such that the display unit can flex relative to themounting apparatus to prevent damage to the mounting device or thedisplay unit. Various torque-limiting features are contemplated,including clutches, dampers, etc.

As shown in FIG. 6B, another embodiment of the mounting apparatus 124′is shown with AC power outlets 150′ as exemplary power interfaces 150.Furthermore, exemplary mechanical interfaces 146 are shown as firstcomponents which will be described in detail below. The first components160, 160′ are generally configured to be engaged by second components210, 210′, which may be coupled or mounted to the medical accessory.Thus, if the medical accessory is coupled to either of first components160, 160′, with the second components 210, 210′, the medical accessorywill be supported by the first component 160, 160′, and be providedpower via the associated AC power outlet 150′.

As shown in FIG. 6C in one embodiment, the mechanical interface 146comprises a gas tank holder 154 coupled to another one of the faces 144of the mounting apparatus 124. When present, the gas tank holder 154provides a quick and efficient manner of coupling a gas source that isseparable from the mounting apparatus 124.

With reference to FIG. 6D in the illustrated embodiment, accessorysupport 20, such as the mounting apparatus 124″, (or the first/secondcomponent) may comprise a deployment device 161 coupled to the mountingapparatus 124″ and the mechanical interface 146, such as the firstcomponent 160′, and configured to move a portion of the mechanicalinterface 146 relative to the mounting apparatus 124″ between a deployedstate and an undeployed state. The deployment device 161 may comprise anactuator, such as an electric motor, configured to move the firstcomponent 160′ relative to the mounting apparatus 124″. The deploymentdevice 161 may further comprise a mount section 163 coupled to the firstcomponent 160′. In the illustrated embodiment, the mount section 163 isconfigured to move the first component 160′ to the mounting apparatus124″. It is to be appreciated the mount section 163 may movably coupleany of the other interfaces to the mounting apparatus 124″, i.e., thepower interface, the fluid interface, and the data interface.

As described above, the deployment device 161 is configured to move themount section 163 between a deployed state, shown generally at 165, andan undeployed state, shown generally at 167. When the deployment device161 is in the deployed state 165, the mount section 163 extends outwardfrom the mounting apparatus 124″ to facilitate coupling between thefirst component 160′ and the second component 210′. In the illustratedembodiment, the mount section 163 pivots outward from the outermost faceof the mounting apparatus 124″. The type of movement that the deploymentdevice 161 may provide is not particularly limited, and the deploymentdevice 161 may move the mount section 163 in any suitable manner tofacilitate coupling to the medical device, such as pivoting from anyedge of the mounting apparatus 124″, sliding the mount section 163outward from the mounting apparatus 124″, etc.

When the deployment device 161 is in the undeployed state 167, the mountsection 163 may be substantially parallel, or parallel, to alongitudinal axis BB of the mounting apparatus 124″. Thus, thedeployment device 161 has a reduced dimensional profile in theundeployed state 167 when compared to the deployed state 165. Thedeployed state 165 facilitates coupling between mechanical interface 146and the medical accessory by presenting an advantageous orientation ofthe mechanical interface. The deployment device 161 may be retained inthe undeployed state using suitable locking or detent mechanisms.

In illustrated embodiment, the housing 142″ of the mounting apparatus124″ defines a deployment device recess 169 configured to receive themount section 163 such that the mount section 163 is substantiallyflush, or flush, with the outer surface of housing 142″ of the mountingapparatus 124″ when the deployment device 161 is in the undeployed state167. It is also contemplated that the mount section 163 may not besubstantially flush, nor flush, with the housing 142″ of the mountingapparatus 124″ when the deployment device 161 is in the undeployed state167.

With reference to FIG. 6D when the deployment device 161 is present, themounting apparatus 124″ may further comprise a user input device 171.Actuation of the user input device 171 causes the deployment device 161to move between the deployed state 165 and the undeployed state 167. Byway of non-limiting example, the user input device 171 may be a button.In other still other embodiments, the user input device 171 may be avoice actuation device. It is further contemplated the user input device171 may also be selected from the group consisting of a motion sensor, abutton, a voice actuation device, and combinations thereof.

Alternatively, the deployment device 161 or mounting apparatus maycomprise a proximity sensor that may detect a medical accessory within apredetermined proximity of deployment device 161. Thus, when the medicalaccessory is within the predetermined proximity of the deployment device161 or mounting apparatus, the deployment device 161 moves from theundeployed state 167 to the deployed state 165. Conventional proximitysensors, such as infrared sensors, may be used.

Referring to FIG. 7A in one exemplary embodiment, the medical accessory26 comprises a line coupler assembly 162. This line coupler assembly 162may couple to any of the aforementioned accessory supports, includingthe mounting apparatus described immediately above. During the course oftreatment, it is possible that several intravenous lines may benecessary to deliver fluids to a patient. In addition, a number ofmedical accessories and their corresponding electrical cords may berequired for treatment of the patient. The number of electrical cordsand intravenous lines in proximity of the patient and the patientsupport apparatus may be difficult for the caregiver to navigate.

As shown in FIG. 7B, the line coupler assembly 162 is configured tocouple to one or more lines 163 common to the healthcare facility suchthat caregivers can position the lines as desired, effectively removingthe safety concern as described above. The lines 163 may compriseintravenous conduits, cables, and cords. These lines 163 may be coupledto suitable medical accessories, including oxygen tanks, infusion pumps,heart monitors, intravenous fluid containers and other medicalaccessories.

The line coupler assembly 162 may be configured to attach to anysuitable location on the patient support apparatus 60 including, but notlimited to, the headboard 80, footboard, one or more side rails 72, 74,76, the intermediate frame 66, and the like. Alternatively, the linecoupler assembly 162 may be coupled to accessory support 20, such as thepost 22 or the mounting apparatus described above. Of course, it isfurther contemplated two or more line coupler assemblies 162 maycooperate to control the lines 163.

With reference to FIGS. 7A-7C in the illustrated embodiment, the linecoupler assembly 162 comprises an attachment hub 164. The attachment hub164 cooperates with a first arm section 166 to form a first joint 168.The first arm section 166 has a proximal end adjacent the attachment hub164 and a distal end opposite the adjacent end. The distal end of thefirst arm section 166 cooperates with a proximal end of a second armsection 170 to form a second joint 172. A distal end of the second armsection 170 located opposite the proximal end of the second arm section170 cooperates with a proximal end of a third arm section 174 to form athird joint 176. A distal end of the third arm section 174 locatedopposite the proximal end of the third arm section 174 cooperates with aproximal end of a fourth arm section 178 to form a fourth joint 180. Aline coupler 182 is coupled to a distal end of the fourth arm section178, located opposite the proximal end of the fourth arm section 178. Itshould be appreciated that the arm sections 166, 170, 174, 178 and thejoints 168, 172, 176, 180 may assume a number of differentconfigurations. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the linecoupler assembly 162 may comprise additional arm sections and/or jointsmay be included depending on the length and positionability desired.

With reference to FIG. 7A, in the illustrated embodiment, the firstjoint 168 and the fourth joint 180 enable only lateral rotationalmovement relative to the adjacent arm sections, whereas the second joint172 and the third joint 176 provide for only vertical pivotal movementrelative to the adjacent arm sections. It should be appreciated thatother joint configurations are also contemplated such that the movementallowed by the various joints be interchangeable, i.e., the first joint168 may enable any vertical movements in certain embodiments. Throughthe complementary ranges of motion provided by the various joints 168,172, 176, 180, the distal end of the arm assembly can move into anydesired position in both vertical and lateral dimensions, relative tothe patient support apparatus 60 or the accessory support 20.

With reference to FIG. 7A, as depicted, the second arm section 170 andthe fourth arm section 178 are longer than the first arm section 166 andthe third arm section 174. However, it is contemplated that the armsections may assume any suitable length. In other words, it iscontemplated that the first and third arm 166, 174 sections be longerthan the second and fourth arm sections 170, 178.

With reference to FIG. 7B in the illustrated embodiment, the attachmenthub 164 is fastened to a mounting device 184. The mounting device 184can be releasably coupled to the accessory support 20, such as post 22.In the illustrated embodiment the mounting device 184 comprises a screwclamp 173. It should be appreciated that the attachment hub 164 can becoupled to any suitable mounting device 184, such as those that will bedescribed below. Alternatively, the attachment hub 164 may be configuredto couple directly to the first component of the mechanical interfacedescribed above.

As shown in FIG. 7D in the illustrated embodiment, the attachment hub164 comprises an attachment hub channel 186 defined by two attachmenthub protrusions 188. Both protrusions 188 define attachment hubapertures 190 that are coaxial with respect to each other. In theillustrated embodiment the proximal end of the first arm section 166comprises a bore. A first pivot pin 194 is disposed within apertures ofattachment hub 164 and bore of the first arm section 166 to define apivot axis B such that the attachment hub 164 is rotatably coupled tothe first arm section 166 to form the first joint 168.

In some instances, the attachment hub 164 comprises a lock feature toprevent rotation of the first arm section 166 about the pivot axis B.Alternatively, a friction device such as a clutch may be disposed withinthe attachment hub apertures 190 of the attachment hub 164 and bore suchthat the attachment hub 164 is rotatably coupled to the first armsection 166. When present the friction device couples the attachment hub164 to the first arm section 166 such that in order for the first armsection 166 to be rotated with respect to the attachment hub 164, aforce that is greater than that exerted as a result of unintentionalcontact with the line coupler assembly 162 is required (i.e., the firstarm section 166 will remain stationary unless a person, such as thecaregiver, intentionally moves the first arm section 166). It iscontemplated that the friction device may be configured to provide anyamount of frictional force desired.

The exemplary first arm section 166 comprises two first arm sectionapertures 197, 198 that extend from the first face to the second face.The second arm section 170 comprises a clutch arm 199 and a support arm200. While it is further contemplated that only a single arm could beutilized, the use of two arms 199, 200 may be useful to provideincreased structural rigidity for the line coupler assembly 162. It isfurther contemplated that more than two arms may be utilized. Inaddition, the second arm section 170 may comprise other forms other thanthose explicitly described.

The proximal ends of the clutch arm 199 and the support arm 200 eachdefine a bore. A second pivot pin 201 is disposed within the first armsection aperture 197 and the bore of the support arm 200 to form a pivotaxis C and form a second joint 172. Similarly, a friction device 202 isdisposed within the first arm section aperture 198 and the bore of theclutch arm 199 to define a pivot axis D for the clutch arm 199. In thismanner, the first arm section 166 and the second arm section 170 arepivotably coupled to allow vertical movement of the second arm section170 relative to the first arm section 166.

The friction device 202 is disposed in the bore of the clutch arm 199such that in order for the second arm section 170 to be moved verticallyrelative to the first arm section 166, a force that is greater than theforce exerted by gravity on the second arm section 170 is required (i.e.the second arm section 170 will remain stationary unless a person, suchas the caregiver, intentionally moves the second arm section 170). Thisfriction device 202 advantageously enables the caregiver to place thesecond arm section 170 at a desired height and release it, whileretaining the position of the second arm section 170. In the illustratedembodiment, the friction device 202 is a friction torque hinge. However,it should be appreciated that the friction device 202 may assume othersuitable configurations and provide sufficient resistance to movement toprevent accidental repositioning of the second arm section 170.

Referring to FIG. 7E in the illustrated embodiment, the distal end ofthe second arm section 170 is coupled to the proximal end of the thirdarm section 174. As illustrated, the distal ends of the clutch andsupport arms 199, 200 each define a bore. The proximal end of the thirdarm section 174 comprises two apertures. Third and fourth pivot pins205, 206 are disposed within the bores of the support arm 200 and theclutch arm 199 and the third arm section apertures to pivotably couplethe second arm section 170 to the third arm section 174 and form thethird joint 176. In this manner, the third arm section 174 can movevertically relative to the second arm section 170 about pivot axes E, Fdefined by the third and fourth pivot pins 205, 206. In some instancesthe friction device 202 described above may be used in place of thethird and fourth pivot pins 205, 206. It is further contemplated thatthird joint 176 may comprise a lock feature configured such that thesearm sections can no longer be rotated freely about the pivot axes E, F.

The depicted configuration of first, second, and third arm sections 166,170, 174 establishes a four-bar linkage between the first arm section166 and the third arm section 174. Other linkage configurations are alsocontemplated through interaction of the arm sections 166, 170, 174.

As shown in FIG. 7E, the distal end of the third arm section 174comprises a channel 207 defined by protrusions 208. Each protrusion 208comprises an aperture. The proximal end of the fourth arm section 178comprises a bore. In the illustrated embodiment a fifth pivot pin 211may be disposed within the apertures of the distal end of the third armsection 174 and the bore of the fourth arm section 178 to define a pivotaxis G such that the third and fourth arm sections 174, 178 arerotatably coupled to one another to form the fourth joint 180.

With reference to FIG. 7A, the line coupler 182 is coupled to the distalend of the fourth arm section 178. While it is shown that the linecoupler 182 is fixedly mounted to the fourth arm section 178, othersuitable couplings are contemplated; for example, the line coupler 182may be movably mounted on the fourth arm section 178. It is furthercontemplated that the fourth arm section 178 may comprise multiple linecouplers 182, or that the line coupler 182 may be coupled to otherportions of the line coupler assembly 162, such as the first 166, second170, third arms sections 174, and combinations thereof.

As shown in FIG. 7F, the first embodiment of the line coupler 182comprises digits 213 extending away from a base portion 215. Each digithas an upper end 217 and a lower end 219. The upper end 217 of eachdigit is wider than the lower end 219 of the same digit. Thus, the spacebetween adjacent digits 213 at the lower end 219 of the digits 213 formgrooves 221 comprising a narrow portion 223 and a wide portion 225. Theline coupler 182 is configured such that medical lines may be disposedwithin the wide portion 225 of the grooves 221, as shown in FIG. 7B,upon the medical lines being traversed through the narrow portion 223 ofthe grooves 221 by the caregiver. It will be appreciated that the widthsof the grooves 221 may be configured appropriately for each type ofmedical line 163 (i.e., the grooves 221 may not have the same widths inthe same line coupler 182).

With reference to FIG. 7G, an alternative embodiment of line coupler182′ is shown. The liner coupler 182′ comprises a base portion 215′ thatdefines an arm section void 227 configured to engage the fourth armsection 178 of the line coupler assembly 162 such that the line coupler182′ can slide along the fourth arm section 178. Further, it iscontemplated that the line coupler 182′ may be coupled to other armsections instead, such as, the second arm section 170. The line coupler182′ further comprises a hook portion 229 extending from the baseportion 215′. The hook portion 229 is configured and dimensioned suchthat ventilation tubes can be disposed within, supported, and orretained by the hook portion 229.

The line coupler 182′ further comprises digits 213′ extending away froma base portion 215′. Each digit has an upper end 217′ and a lower end219′. The upper end 217′ of each digit is wider than the lower end 219′of the same digit. Thus, the space between adjacent digits 213′ at thelower end 219′ of the digits 213′ form grooves 221′ comprising a narrowportion 223′ and a wide portion 225′. The line coupler 182′ isconfigured such that medical lines 163 may be disposed within the wideportion 225′ of the grooves 221′, as shown in FIG. 7B, upon the medicallines being traversed through the narrow portion 223′ of the grooves221′ by a user, such as the caregiver. It will be appreciated that thewidths of the grooves 221′ may be configured appropriately for each typeof medical line 163′ (i.e., the grooves 221′ may not have the samewidths).

Referring now to FIGS. 7B, 8A-8C, and FIGS. 9A and 9B, the mountingdevices 184 are configured to mount or couple the medical accessory tothe accessory support, such as post. By way of non-limiting example, themounting device 184 may comprise cam clamp 214 (FIGS. 8A-8C), a cleatlock 216 (FIGS. 9A and 9B), or the screw clamp 173 (FIG. 7B). It is tobe appreciated that these mounting devices 184 may be fixed to, orintegral with, the first component or the second component to allow thefirst component or the second component to be mounted to/supported byvarious accessory supports, such as IV poles.

Certain mounting devices 184 may be configured to assume a secured stateand an unsecured state. When in the unsecured state, the mountingdevices 184 can move freely in the vertical direction relative to alongitudinal axis CC of the post 22, as shown in FIG. 8C. On the otherhand, when in the secured state, the mounting devices 184 cannot movefreely in the vertical direction, at least not downwardly in thevertical direction, relative to the longitudinal axis CC of the post 22as shown in FIG. 8B.

In some instances the mounting device 184, such as cam clamp 214, isconfigured to rotate freely about the longitudinal axis CC of the post22 in both the secured and unsecured states. Of course, it is alsocontemplated that rotation of the cam clamp 214 about the longitudinalaxis CC of the post 22 may be restricted when the cam clamp 214 is inthe secured configuration. In some instances cam clamp 214 may be fixedrelative to the post 22 when the cam clamp 214 is in the secured state.

In certain embodiments, the mounting device 184, such as cam clamp 214,is further configured such that the medical accessory coupled theretocan rotate about the longitudinal axis CC of the post 22, whileretaining its height relative to the post 22. In other words, the camclamp 214 may be capable of supporting the weight of the medicalaccessory on the post 22 and prevent downward movement, while stillallowing the medical accessory to rotate about the longitudinal axis CCof the post 22.

In addition, the mounting device 184, such as cam clamp 214, may beconfigured to be biased into the secured state. In other words asillustrated, upon engagement of the cam clamp 214 with the post 22, thecam clamp 214 automatically engages the post 22 without requiringcaregiver actuation.

By way of example, in one embodiment, the mounting device 184 comprisesthe cam clamp 214. As shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the cam clamp 214comprises a clamp frame 218, a cam member 220, and a cam pin 222. Thecam member 220 further comprises an engagement portion 224 and a lever226. In the illustrated embodiment the clamp frame 218 comprises aU-shaped portion 228 and a pole groove 230 for accommodating thecylindrical shape of the illustrated post 22. The U-shaped portion 228has a first leg 232 and a second leg 234. As illustrated, the clampframe 218 comprises two pieces; however, it should be appreciated thatthe clamp frame 218 may be one-piece.

The first leg 232 and the second leg 234 each define clamp frameapertures 236, and the two ends of the cam pin 222 are disposed in theclamp frame apertures 236. The cam member 220 is rotatably coupled tothe cam pin 222 such that the cam member 220 is rotatable about an axisDD defined by the cam pin 222. The cam clamp 214 further comprises abiasing member 238 operably coupled to the cam member 220 to bias thecam member 220 to a secured state where the cam member 220 engages thepost 22. The biasing member 238 exerts force on the cam member 220 suchthat the cam member 220 abuts an alignment member 240 and is aligned ina pre-determined position that is substantially aligned, or aligned,with the pole groove 230 of the clamp frame 218.

In the secured state and as described generally above, the cam member220 engages the post 22 such that the cam clamp 214 cannot move freelyin the downward vertical direction relative to the longitudinal axis CCof the post 22. In some instances the cam clamp 214 may rotate freelyabout the longitudinal axis CC of the post 22 when the cam member 220 isin the secured state.

As illustrated, the biasing member 238 comprises a torsion spring 238disposed about the cam pin 222 with one end of the torsion spring 238engaging the first leg 232 of the U-shaped portion 228 and the secondend of the torsion spring engaging the cam member 220. Other types ofbiasing members are contemplated, and these biasing members may bearranged in a configuration to ensure that the cam member 220 is biasedagainst the post 22.

The clamp frame 218 of the cam clamp 214 may be configured to beattached to a first component, or a second component, of the couplingsystem that will be described below. Alternatively, the medicalaccessory may be coupled directly to the clamp frame 218.

The caregiver may operate the cam clamp 214 by rotating the cam member220 between the secured state and the unsecured state by engaging thelever 226. As shown in FIG. 8B, when in the secured state the engagementportion 224 abuts the post 22 of the cam member 220 and the pole groove230 of the clamp frame 218 such that the cam clamp 214 is resistant tovertical movement with respect to the post 22. As shown in FIG. 8C, whenin the unsecured state, the post 22 abuts only the pole groove 230 suchthat the cam clamp 214 is able to move freely with respect to the post22, both vertically and rotationally about the post 22. When thecaregiver does not engage the lever 226, the biasing member 238 appliesa force that ensures the engagement portion 224 of the cam member 220engages the post 22 to prevent vertical movement thereabout. Even whenthe biasing member 238 applies such force the cam clamp 214 can berotated about the longitudinal axis CC of the post 22.

With reference to FIGS. 9A and 9B, in another embodiment the mountingdevice 184 comprises the cleat lock 216. The cleat lock 216 comprises acleat lock base 242, a first engaging member 244, and a second engagingmember 246. The cleat lock base 242 has a mounting face 248 and anengagement face 250 opposite to the mounting face 248. The mounting face248 may be coupled to the first component or the second component of thecoupling system. Alternatively, the medical accessory may be coupleddirectly to the mounting face.

Referring to FIG. 9A, the first and second engaging members 244, 246 ofthe cleat lock 216 each have a grip portion 252 for engaging with theaccessory support 20, such as post 22. In some instances, such as in theillustrated embodiment, the grip portion 252 of the first and secondengaging members 244, 246 comprises a rib portion 252 to facilitateengagement the first and second engaging members 244, 246 with the post22.

Referring to FIG. 9B, in the illustrated embodiment, the engagement face250 further comprises a channel 254. The channel 254 comprises a polegroove 230′ for receiving the post 22. The first and second engagingmembers 244, 246 are movably disposed within the channel 254. In theillustrated embodiment, the first and second engaging members 234, 236are rotatably coupled to the cleat lock base 242 by coupling pins 256.

A biasing apparatus 258 shown schematically in FIG. 9A urges each of thefirst and second engaging members 244, 246 into a secured state. Asshown in FIG. 9B, in the secured state the biasing apparatus 258 biasesthe grip portions 252 of the first engaging member 244 towards the gripportion 252 of the second engaging member 246. In the illustratedembodiment, the grip portions 252 of the first and second engagingmembers 244, 246 are spaced from one another even when no post 22 ispositioned there between. However, in other embodiments it iscontemplated that the grip portions 252 of the first and second engagingmembers 244, 246 may abut each other when no post 22 is positioned therebetween.

In the secured state, the first and second engaging members 244, 246engage the post 22 when the post 22 abuts the pole groove 230′ of thecleat lock base 242. In the secured state the cleat lock 216 and, byassociation, the medical device, cannot move in the downward directionrelative to the post 22. Moreover, the first and second engaging members244, 246 exert a force, in the upward direction on the post 22 that isequal to or greater than the force exerted on the cleat lock 216, andthe accompanying medical accessory attached thereto, by gravity.

To operate the cleat lock 216, the caregiver positions the post 22 suchthat it abuts the outward surfaces of the first and second engagingmembers 244, 246. By pressing the cleat lock 216 against the post 22 andsimultaneously lowering the cleat lock 216 such that as the post 22abuts the outward surface of the first and second engaging members 244,246 the grip portions 252 rotate about the coupling pin 256 towards thebottom of the cleat lock 216.

As the first and second engaging members 244, 246 move away from thepost 22, the post 22 can be brought into abutment with the pole groove230′ of the engagement face 250 of the cleat lock 216. When the post 22abuts the pole groove 230′, and the first and second engaging members244, 246 are not substantially inhibited by the post 22, the first andsecond engaging members 244, 246 are biased towards the top of the post22 to prevent movement of the cleat lock 216 downward along the post 22in the vertical direction.

The caregiver may remove the post 22 from the cleat lock 216 byvertically raising the cleat lock 216 with respect to the post 22 suchthat the first and second engaging members 244, 246 rotate towards thebottom of the cleat lock base 242 as they no longer inhibit the post 22.In this manner a caregiver can quickly couple and de-couple the cleatlock 216, and attached medical accessories, to and from the post 22.

The present disclosure also provides a coupling system for coupling amedical accessory to an accessory support. The coupling system comprisesthe first component and second component described above. The firstcomponent is configured to mechanically couple the second component in amanner sufficient for the first component to support the weight of thesecond component (and the medical accessory or accessory support coupledthereto), or vice-versa. While the phrases ‘first component’ and ‘secondcomponent’ are used throughout this disclosure and claims to refer tospecific structural and functional configurations, the phrases are usedinterchangeably. In other words, any first component may be configuredidentically to configurations described with reference to the secondcomponent, and vice-versa.

The first component may be mounted to, or integral with, one of theaccessory support or the medical accessory. The second component may bemounted to, or integral with, the other of the accessory support and themedical accessory. In some embodiments, the first and second componentsmay be mounted on each of the accessory support via any of the mountingdevices described above

It is further contemplated that the first or second component may bemounted to any location on any accessory supports, patient supportapparatuses, or patient transport chairs described herein. Further, thefirst or second components may be mounted to any location of any othertables, chairs, beds, and boom stands found within a healthcarefacility.

With reference to FIG. 1, a coupling system 212 according to oneembodiment is provided. The coupling system 212 permits the quick andefficient support of medical accessories by accessory supports 20, suchas post 22, or the mounting apparatus 124 (see FIG. 5A). Generally, thecoupling system 212 comprises the first component 160 and the secondcomponent 210. The first component 160 is configured to couple to thesecond component 210 in a manner sufficient for the first component 160to support the weight of the second component 210, or vice-versa. Itshould be appreciated that various orientations of the first and secondcomponents are contemplated beyond what is illustrated explicitly in thefigures. For example, the first and second components may be turnedupside down or sideways and still preserve their functionality.

The intersection of the first component and the second componentdescribed throughout this disclosure may result in the power, data,fluid, and mechanical interfaces described herein.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second component 210 may couple thefirst component 160 by approaching the first component from above.However, in some embodiments, the first component may comprise a hanger.When the first component comprises the hanger, the second component mayapproach the first component from below and hang from the firstcomponent 160.

While several exemplary embodiments are shown (see FIGS. 10-12), thedesign of the first component and the second component is notparticularly limited. With reference to FIGS. 10A-B and 11A-D, in oneembodiment, the coupling system is configured such that the firstcomponent 160 is configured to interact with the second component 210 ina locked arrangement and an unlocked arrangement. More particularly, thefirst component 160 is configured to support the second component 210 inboth the locked arrangement and the unlocked arrangement. The couplingsystem 212 may be further configured such that the first component 160prevents downward movement, i.e., falling, of the second component 210when the second component 210 is supported by the first component 160and the first and second components 160, 210 are in the unlockedarrangement. It is also contemplated that the first component 160 mayprevent lateral movement of the second component 210 relative to thefirst component 160 when the first and second components 160, 210 are inthe locked arrangement.

With reference to FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B, in a first embodiment the firstcomponent 160 comprises a first mounting portion 263 and a firstcoupling portion 265.

In the illustrated embodiment, first component 160 comprises a firstbase 260 and a projection 262 extending from the first base 260. Thefirst base 260 may be configured such that the first mounting portion263 of the first component 160 may be mounted to the mounting devices184, such as cam clamp 214, as described above and shown in FIG. 10Adepending on the type of accessory support. Alternatively, the firstmounting portion 263 may be directly mounted to the mounting apparatus124, as shown in FIG. 6B.

The projection 262 comprises a pillar 270, and a lip 272 disposed on thepillar 270. The pillar 270 extends outwardly from the first base 260.The pillar 270 comprises a top 274 and a bottom 276. Between the top 274and the bottom 276, the pillar 270 comprises a recess 278 on each side.The recess 278 is configured to engage at least a portion of the secondcomponent 210. The lip 272 comprises an angled portion 280 and arectangular portion 282. Because each portion of the lip 272 isgenerally wider than the adjacent portion of the pillar 270, the lip 272extends transverse beyond the pillar 270.

Referring now to FIGS. 11A and 11B in the illustrated embodiment, thesecond component 210 comprises a second mounting portion 267 and asecond coupling portion 269. The second mounting portion 267 may bemounted to a medical accessory. The second component 210 furthercomprises a second base 264. The second base 264 comprises a slot 266configured to accept the projection 262 of the first component 160 toreleasably couple the first component 160 to the second component 210.

As shown in FIG. 11C, the second component 210 comprises a lockingassembly 268 disposed within the second base 264 and configured toselectively engage the projection 262 of the first component 160 torestrict movement of the first component 160 with respect to the secondcomponent 210 when the locking assembly 268 is engaged. While oneexemplary embodiment of the locking assembly 268 is shown in FIG. 11C,alternative configurations of the locking assembly are contemplated.

Referring now to FIG. 1, when the locking assembly 268 is present, atleast one of the first and second components 160, 210 may furthercomprise an indicator device 380 configured to provide a coupling statusof the coupling system 212 to the caregiver. The coupling status maycomprise a locked status when the first and second components 160, 210are in the locked arrangement and an unlocked status when the first andsecond components 160, 210 are in the unlocked arrangement. Thus, theindicator device 380 may alert a user when the first and secondcomponents 160, 210 are in the locked arrangement or the unlockedarrangement. The indicator device 380 may comprise, by way ofnon-limiting example, a visual indicator, an audible indicator, atactile indicator, or any indicator configured to alert a user to astatus of the coupling system 212. The indicator device 380 may beelectrical, mechanical, or electromechanical in nature.

With reference to FIG. 11B as described above, the slot 266 of thesecond component 210 is shaped to receive the projection 262 of thefirst component 160. The slot 266 comprises a lip-receiving portion 284that is shaped to receive the lip 272 of the first component 160 and apillar-receiving portion 286 that is shaped to receive the pillar 270 ofthe first component 160. Thus, as illustrated, the lip-receiving portion284 of the slot 266 comprises a straight portion and an angled portion.Similarly, the pillar-receiving portion 286 of the slot 266 comprises arectangular portion and an angled portion. The second component 210 mayfurther comprise locking assembly cavities 290.

With reference to FIG. 11C, the locking assembly 268 is disposed withinthe second base 264 of the second component 210. In the illustratedembodiment, the locking assembly 268 comprises a second user inputdevice 292 partially disposed within the second base 264. The seconduser input device 292, shown as a button 292 in accordance with oneembodiment, may be slidably displaceable relative to the second base 264between an initial position and a depressed position. Still other seconduser input devices 292 are also contemplated, including but not limitedto, electronic switches, voice actuation device, etc.

As illustrated, the locking assembly 268 in one embodiment, furthercomprises first and second locking arms 294. The first and secondlocking arms 294 each have shoulder portions 298 and finger portions300. The first and second locking arms 294 are configured to rotateabout arm pins 302. The button 292 comprises a lock engaging portion 306disposed substantially within, or within, the second base 264 andconfigured to engage the shoulder portions 298 of the first and secondlocking arms 294. A biasing assembly (not shown) urges the first andsecond locking arms 294 into a locked arrangement, as shown in FIG. 11C.When in the locked arrangement, the finger portions 300 of the first andsecond locking arms 294 extend through the locking assembly cavities 290of the second component 210 to engage the recess 278 of the firstcomponent 160. Moreover, when the locking assembly 268 is in the lockedarrangement, the button 292 is in the initial position and the lockengaging portion 306 does not engage the shoulder portions 298 of thefirst and second locking arms 294. Other locking assembly configurationsare also contemplated.

The first component 160 and the second component 210 may be coupledtogether, as shown in FIGS. 11C and 11D. When coupled, the lip of thefirst component 160 engages the lip-receiving portion of the secondcomponent 210, and the pillar 270 of the first component 160 engages thepillar-receiving portion of the second component 210. Referring to FIG.11C, the locking assembly 268 is shown in the locked arrangement. Whenthe first component 160 and the second component 210 are coupled and thelocking assembly 268 is in the locked arrangement, the first component160 and the second component 210 cannot move relative to each other.Engagement of the locking assembly 268 prevents movement of the firstcomponent 160 and second component 210 relative to one another.

Referring now to FIG. 11D, with the locking assembly 268 in an unlockedarrangement, a user may couple the first component 160 and the secondcomponent 210 by first engaging the top of the projection 262 with theslot 266 of the second component 210. When coupled to an accessorysupport 20, either directly or via a mounting device 184 as describedabove, the first component 160 may support the weight of the secondcomponent 210 and a medical accessory coupled to the second component210 while the locking assembly 268 is in the unlocked arrangement (i.e.,the locking assembly 268 does not need to be in the locked arrangementfor the weight of the medical accessory 26 coupled to the secondcomponent 210 to be operably supported by the first component 160). Inother words, even if the locking assembly 268 was absent, theinteraction of the pillar 270 and the pillar-receiving portion 286 andthe interaction of the lip 272 and the lip-receiving portion 284 preventrelative movement between the first component 160 and second component210 in all but the upward direction. This ensures that the firstcomponent 160 and second component 210 can only disengage from oneanother if the first component 160 is raised upward relative to thesecond component 210. Once the first component 160 and the secondcomponent 210 are fully engaged, and the locking assembly apertures 290become open to the recess 278 of the projection 262 of the firstcomponent 160, the first and second locking arms 294 move inwards to thelocked arrangement, where the finger portions 300 engage the recess 278,as shown in FIG. 11C.

When the first component 160 and the second component 210 are coupledtogether and the locking assembly 268 is in the locked arrangement, thecoupling system permits quick and efficient decoupling. By depressingthe button 292, the first and second locking arms 294 move from thelocked arrangement to the unlocked arrangement. More particularly,depressing the button 292 causes the lock engaging portion 306 to engagethe shoulder portions 298 of the first and second locking arms 294,thereby pivoting the first and second locking arms about arm pins 302from the locked arrangement to the unlocked arrangement. When thelocking assembly 268 is in the unlocked arrangement, the caregiver canlift the second component 210 away from the first component 160, eitherdirectly or indirectly via a medical accessory 26 coupled to the secondcomponent 210, to cause decoupling.

It is further contemplated that when the locking assembly 268 ispresent, the locking assembly 268 is biased toward the lockedarrangement. Specifically, the locking assembly 268 may not requireactuation of the second user input device 292 for the coupling system tobe placed in the locked arrangement, but may only require actuation ofthe second user input device 292 to switch the locking assembly from thelocked arrangement to the unlocked arrangement.

In an alternative embodiment, referring to FIGS. 12A-12E a couplingsystem 212′ comprises a first component 160′, and a second component210′. As shown in FIG. 12A the first component 160′ comprises a firstbase 260′. The first base 260′ comprises a first coupling portion 265′and a first mounting portion 263′ opposite the first coupling portion265′. The first mounting portion 263′ may be coupled to the mountingdevices or the mounting apparatus, as described above. The first base260′ comprises upper guide tabs 316 at the top of the first base 260′,intermediate guide tabs 318 at the intermediate portion 320 of the firstbase 260′, and a lower guide tab 322 at the bottom of the first base260′.

The upper guide tabs 316 comprises a sloped portion 324, a nose 326, anda tab recess 328. As depicted, the upper guide tabs 316 are spacedlaterally from one another to define an additional coupling feature 330.The upper guide tabs 316 are angled upward to define the tab recess 328that rotatably supports the second component 210′. As illustrated, theupper guide tabs 316 comprise a rounded shape to allow easy rotationalmovement of the second component 210′ relative to the upper guide tabs316.

The intermediate guide tabs 318 are spaced apart from another, and asillustrated, comprise a teardrop shape. The intermediate guide tabs 318extend downward away from the upper guide tabs 316. The lower guide tab322 extends outwardly from the first base 260′. The intermediate guidetabs 318 and the lower guide tab 322 cooperate to define a trough 332that enables locking of the first component 160′ relative to the secondcomponent 210′.

With reference to FIG. 12B, the second component 210′ comprises a secondbase 264′ having a second mounting portion 267′ and a second couplingportion 269′ that is opposite the second mounting portion 267′. Thesecond mounting portion 267′ may be mounted to a medical accessory.

As shown in FIG. 12B, the second base 264′ comprises a hook member 338extending outward from the second base 264′ and shaped to engage theupper guide tabs 316 of the first component 160′. The hook member 338comprises a hook recess 340. More particularly, the hook member 338 isconfigured to engage the tab recess 328 of the first component 160′ suchthat the upper guide tabs 316 engage the hook recess 340 of the secondcomponent 210′. This engagement allows the weight of the medicalaccessory, which is coupled to the second component 210′ to rest uponthe upper guide tabs 316 of the first component 160′, whether the firstand second components 160′, 210′ are in a locked arrangement or anunlocked arrangement.

The second base 264′ further comprises locating feature 339 adjacent thehook member 338 and configured to engage the addition coupling feature330 of the first component 160, such that the second component 210′cannot move laterally with respect to the first component 160′, whetherthe first and second components 160′, 210′ are in the locked or unlockedarrangement.

As shown in FIG. 12C, the second component 210′ further comprises alocking chamber 342 at the bottom of the second base 264′. The lockingchamber 342 is defined on the two lateral sides by a first wall 344 anda second wall 346. The top of the locking chamber 342 is defined by aramp 348 that comprises a port 350. The bottom of the locking chamber342 is open.

With reference to FIG. 12B, the second component 210′ further comprisesa locking assembly 268′ positioned adjacent to the second base 264′, atleast partially within the locking chamber 342. The locking assembly268′ is configured to releasably secure the first component 160′ to thesecond component 210′ when the locking assembly 268′ is in the lockedarrangement.

Referring to FIGS. 12B and 12D, the exemplary locking assembly 268′comprises a latch 354 at least partially disposed within the lockingchamber 342, a detent plunger 372, and a biasing device 374. The latch354 is pivotable relative to the second component 210′ between a lockedarrangement and an unlocked arrangement. The latch 354 is rotatablycoupled to a latch pin 356. The latch pin 356 is coupled to the firstwall 344 and second wall 346 of the female body 314 such that ittraverses the locking chamber 342. Thus, the latch 354 rotates about thelatch pin 356 between the locked arrangement and the unlockedarrangement.

The latch 354 comprises wings 358 configured to engage the intermediateguide tabs 318. The wings 358 comprise first and second prongs 362,laterally spaced from each other to a define a prong voids 364 such thatthe first and second prongs 362 engage opposite sides of theintermediate guide tabs 318 of the first component 160′, as illustratedin FIG. 12D. With reference to FIG. 12E, the latch 354 further comprisesdetent member 366 having a tab engaging portion 368 configured to engagethe intermediate guide tabs 318 and the lower guide tab 322 of the firstcomponent 160′, and a cam portion 370 configured to engage the detentplunger 372. The cam portion 370 defines a first nook 376 and a secondnook 378 corresponding to the locked arrangement and the unlockedarrangement of the locking assembly 268′, respectively.

The detent plunger 372 is at least partially disposed within the port ofthe second base 264′ and is urged by the biasing device 374 in thedirection of the latch 354. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasingdevice 374 is a spring. When in the locked arrangement, the detentplunger 372 engages the first nook 376 of the detent member 366. When inthe unlocked arrangement, the detent plunger 372 engages the second nook378 of the detent member 366.

The first component 160′ and the second component 210′ may be coupledtogether, as shown in FIG. 12D. When coupled, the hook member 338 of thesecond component 210′ engages the tab recess 328 of the first component160′, and the intermediate guide tabs 318 and lower guide tab 322 of thefirst component 160′ engage the latch 354 of the locking assembly 268′.Referring to FIG. 12D, the locking assembly 268′ is shown in the lockedarrangement. When the first component 160′ and the second component 210′are coupled and the locking assembly 268′ is in the locked arrangement,the first component 160′ and the second component 210′ cannot moverelative to each other. Engagement of the locking assembly 268′ preventsmovement of the first component 160′ and second component 210′ relativeto one another.

Referring to FIG. 12F, with the locking assembly 268′ in the unlockedarrangement, the caregiver may couple the first component 160′ and thesecond component 210′ by first engaging the hook member 338 of thesecond component 210′ with the tab recess 328 of the first component160′. When coupled to an accessory support, either directly or by themounting devices described above, the first component 160′ may supportthe weight of the second component 210′ and a medical accessory coupledto the second component 210′ while the locking assembly 268′ is inunlocked arrangement (i.e., the locking assembly 268′ does not need toin the locked arrangement for the weight of the medical accessory 26coupled to the second component 210′ to be operably supported by thefirst component 160′). In other words, even if the locking assembly 268′was absent, the hook member 338 of the second component 210′ engages thetab recess 328 of the first component 160′. Moreover, the first andsecond walls 344, 346 engage the intermediate tabs 318 and lower tab 322such that movement of the second component 210′ relative to the firstcomponent 160′ is prevented in all but the upward direction. The oneremaining degree of freedom pertains to raising the second component210′ upward relative to the first component 160′.

With reference to FIG. 14, in another embodiment, the coupling systemcomprises a first component 160″, and a second component 210″. The firstand second components 160″, 210″ may include a mechanical interface146′, a data interface 148′, a power interface 150′, and/or a fluidinterface 152′. The interfaces 146′, 148′, 150′, 152′ may be any type ofinterface described herein for the mounting apparatus. Thus, the firstcomponent 160″ and the second component 210″ may facilitate the exchangeof data between the medical accessory mounted on one of the first andsecond components 160″, 210″ and the accessory support mounted on theother of the first and second components 160″, 210″. Moreover, the firstand second components 160″, 210″ may facilitate supplying power and/orfluid from the accessory support/mounting apparatus to the medicalaccessory.

In one embodiment, as eluded to above, the first component 160″ may bemounted on the accessory support such as the mounting apparatus and thesecond component 210″ may be mounted on the medical accessory.Alternatively, the first component 160″ may be mounted on the medicalaccessory and the second component 210″ may be mounted on the mountingapparatus.

The first component 160″ may be mechanically, electrically, and/orfluidly coupled to the accessory support. Moreover, the second component210″ may be mechanically, electrically, and/or fluidly coupled to theaccessory support. These types of couplings of the first component 160″and the second component 210″ are not particularly limited, and may beembodied in any form described herein, including wired or wirelessconnections.

The mechanical interface 146′, the data interface 148′, the powerinterface 150′, and/or the fluid interface 152′ may be arranged in amanner to provide coupling sets 156′″. The coupling sets 156′″ of thefirst and second components 160″, 210″ may be advantageously positionedsuch that when the first component 160″ and the second component 210″are mechanically coupled to each other, the medical accessory iselectrically and/or fluidly coupled to the accessory support. In someembodiments, the medical accessory is electrically coupled (i.e., powerand/or data) and/or fluidly coupled to the accessory support when thefirst and second components 160″, 210″ are mechanically coupled to oneanother in both the locked arrangement and the unlocked arrangement. Inother embodiments, the medical accessory is electrically and/or fluidlycoupled to the mounting apparatus/accessory support only when the firstand second components 160″, 210″ are in the locked arrangement.Alternatively still, the electrical and fluid connections between themedical accessory and the mounting apparatus can be established even ifthe first and second components 160″, 210″ do not include a lockingassembly.

As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, in some embodiments, it should beunderstood that the data interface 148′ and the power interface 150′ ofthe first and second components 160″, 210″ may be established with firstand second electrical connectors 382, 384. Each electrical connector382, 384, if present, is configured to electrically couple the first andsecond components 160″, 210″ to each other when the first and secondcomponents 160″, 260″ are mechanically coupled to one another. Moreover,when the first and second components 160″, 210″ are electrically coupledto the mounting apparatus and the medical accessory respectively, thefirst and second electrical terminals or connectors 382, 384 facilitatean electrical coupling between the medical accessory and the controller149 and/or power distribution system 151 of the mounting apparatus 124,to enable the power interface and/or data interface describedthroughout.

The location of the first and second electrical connectors 382, 384 maybe at any suitable location respectively on the first and secondcomponents 160″, 210″ to enable electrical coupling between the firstcomponent 160″ and the second component 210″. For example, withreference to FIGS. 14 and 15, the first and second electrical connectors382, 384 may be located at a bottom end 386, 388 of the first and secondcomponents 160″, 210″ respectively. Of course, it is contemplated theelectrical connectors 382, 384 may be located in positions other thanthe bottom end 386, 388.

In other embodiments, the first component may further comprise a thirdelectrical connector and the second component may comprise a fourthelectrical connector. When the third and fourth electrical connectorsare present, the first and second components may be configured toelectrically couple the first and second connectors, and the third andfourth connectors when the first component is coupled to the secondcomponent with the mechanical interface. Moreover, the third and fourthconnectors may exchange only data whereas the first and secondconnectors may exchange only power. In other embodiments, both of thefirst and second connectors and the third and fourth connectors mayexchange power and/or data. Of course, still other electrical connectorsmay be included in the coupling system.

As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the first connector 382 may comprise afemale electrical connector 382 and the second electrical connector 384may comprise a male electrical connector 384. Alternatively, the firstconnector may comprise a male electrical connector and the secondelectrical connector may comprise a female electrical connector.

In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second components160″, 210″ may further comprise a proximity sensor 390 such as theproximity sensor described above for the deployment device. In someembodiments, the proximity sensor 390 may comprise a limit switch 390.

When the proximity sensor 390 is present, the first component 160″,mounted on the accessory support, may be electrically coupled to thecontroller and/or power distribution system of the accessory supportbased on the proximity of the first component 160″ relative to thesecond component 210″. When the first component 160″ is in proximity ofthe second component 210″ the controller electrically couples the firstcomponent 160″ to the controller and/or power distribution system of theaccessory support based on the input signal received from the proximitysensor 390.

When the first component 160″ is not in proximity of the secondcomponent 210″, the controller does not electrically couple the firstcomponent 160″ to the controller and/or power distribution system of theaccessory support based on the input signal received from the proximitysensor 390.

When the proximity sensor 390 is present, the first electrical connector382 of the first component 160″, is not energized unless the firstcomponent 160″ is in within a predetermined proximity of the secondcomponent 210″. In this manner, the controller advantageously reducesthe risk of electrical fires arising from arcing and electrical sparks,and reduces chance of accidental shock through inadvertent contact withthe first electrical connector 382.

Referring again to FIG. 14, in some embodiments, the data interface 148′of the first and second components 160″, 210″ may function as theproximity sensor by facilitating communication from the medicalaccessory to the controller of the accessory support. For example, thecontroller may couple the first component to the power distributionsystem and/or energize the first electrical connector upon verifying thepresence of a medical accessory via the data interface 148′, such asthrough the 1-wire connection described above.

With reference to FIGS. 15 and 17-19, in one embodiment, the couplingsystem 212″ comprises a first component 160″. The first componentcomprises a first base 260″ and a ball assembly 392 for engaging thesecond component 210″. With reference to FIGS. 15 and 17, the first base260″ comprises a first mounting portion 263″ and a first couplingportion 265″. The first mounting portion 263″ may be coupled to theaccessory support such as the mounting apparatus described above.Alternatively, the first mounting portion 263″ may be coupled to anymedical accessory. It is further contemplated that the first mountingportion 263″ may be coupled to the mounting devices described above.

With reference to FIG. 15, the first component 160″ comprises proximitysensor 390 partially disposed within the first base 260″.

As described above, the first component 160″ comprises first electricalconnector 382 which is the female electrical connector 382. The femaleelectrical connector 382 is partially disposed in the first base 260″.Of course, the female electrical connector 382 may be disposed elsewherein the first component such as, for example, the ball assembly 392.

With reference to FIGS. 15 and 17, in the illustrated embodiment, theball assembly 392 comprises an intermediate portion 394, a sphericalportion 396, and a guide feature 398. The intermediate portion 394 iscoupled to the first base 260″ and extends from the first base 260″between a first end 400 adjacent the first base 260″ and a second end402 spaced from the first end 400. In the illustrated embodiment, theintermediate portion 394 is integral with the first base 260″, however,it is contemplated the intermediate portion may not be integral with thefirst base 260″. The spherical portion 396 is coupled to the second end402 of the first base 260″. The spherical portion 396 is configured forengagement with the second component 210″. The guide feature 398 iscoupled to the first base 160″ and the intermediate portion 394. Theguide feature 394 is geometrically configured to guide the firstcomponent 160″ into proper engagement with the second component 210″,including guiding electrical connectors 382, 384 into engagement withone another. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide feature 398 isintegral with the first base 260″ and the intermediate portion 394,however, it is contemplated the guide feature 398 may not be integralwith the first base 260″ and the intermediate portion 394.

Referring to FIGS. 16-19, the second component 210″ comprises a secondbase 264″. The second base 264″ comprises a second mounting portion 267″and a second coupling portion 269″ that is opposite the second mountingportion 267″. The second mounting portion 267″ may be mounted to amedical accessory, an accessory support such as the mounting apparatusas described above, or any mounting device described above.

As shown in FIG. 16, the second component 210″ may comprise the maleelectrical connector 384 at least partially disposed in the second base264′ for electrically coupling the female electrical connector 382 ofthe first component 160″. Of course, the male electrical connector 384may be disposed elsewhere in the second component 210″.

In some embodiments, the second base 264″ may further define a sphericalrecess 404. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the spherical recess 404 has aspherical configuration for receiving at least a portion of thespherical portion 396 of the first component 160″.

In some embodiments, the second base 264″ may define a guide featuregroove 406 for guiding the first component 160″ into the sphericalrecess 404 and receiving the guide feature 398 of the first component160″ such that the second component 210″ is restricted from movinglaterally with respect to the first component 160″, whether the firstand second components 160″, 210″ are in the locked or unlockedarrangement. Moreover, the guide feature groove 406 may restrict lateralmovement of the second component 210″ relative to the first component160″ when the first and second components do not comprise a lockassembly.

As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the second component 210″ comprises alocking assembly 268″ disposed within the second base 264″. The lockingassembly is configured to selectively engage the first base 260″ of thefirst component 160″ to restrict movement of the first component 160″with respect to the second component 210″ in the locked arrangement.While one exemplary embodiment of the locking assembly 268″ is shown inFIGS. 16 and 17, alternative configurations of the locking assembly 268″are contemplated.

When the locking assembly 268″ engages the first base 260″ such thatmovement of the second component 210″ relative to the first component160″ is constrained, the coupling system 212″ is in the lockedarrangement. Thus, when the locking assembly 268″ does not engage thefirst base 260″ such that movement of the second component 210″ relativeto the first component 160″ is constrained, the coupling system 212″ isin the unlocked arrangement.

The first and second components 160″ and 210″ may be coupled togethersuch that the second component 210″ may pivot relative to the firstcomponent 160″ between a first position (see FIG. 18) and a secondposition (see FIG. 19). In the first position, the female and maleelectrical connectors 382, 384 of the first and second components 160″,210″ may not be electrically coupled with each other. In the secondposition, the female and male electrical connectors 382, 384 of thefirst and second components 160″, 210″ are in communication (i.e., areelectrically coupled) with each other.

With reference to FIG. 18, in the first position, the first component160″ and the second component 210″ may be coupled together such that theball assembly 392 of the first component 160″ is received by thespherical recess 404, and the guide feature groove 406 of the secondcomponent 210″. The spherical recess 404 and guide feature groove 406 ofthe second component 210″ cooperate to constrain movement of the secondcomponent 210″ relative to the first component 160″. As shown in FIG.18, the second component 210″ is prevented from lateral movementrelative to the first component 160″ but can pivot as indicated bymotion arrow 408 relative to the first component 160″. In this manner,the first component 160″ supports the weight of the second component210″ and any medical accessories mounted to the second component 210″while still allowing movement to establish the power and/or datainterfaces.

It will be readily appreciated that when only the spherical portion 396of the first component 160″ engages the second component 210″, thesecond component 210″ may move laterally with respect to the firstcomponent 160″ because the guide feature 398 does not engage the secondcomponent 210″. Thus, the caregiver may partially support the secondcomponent 210″ on the first component 160″ while still retaining lateralmovement of the second component 210″ relative to the first component160″.

With continued reference to FIG. 18, when the coupling system 212″ is inthe first position, the male and female electrical connectors 384, 382are not coupled to each other. In other words, in the first position thefirst and second components 160″, 210″ are not electrically coupled toeach other despite the fact that the weight of the second component 210″is supported by the first component 160″.

When the coupling system 212″ is in the first position, the controller149 may not electrically couple the first component 160″ to thecontroller 149 and/or power distribution system 151 of the mountingapparatus. In other words, when the coupling system 212″ is in the firstposition, electrical energy is prevented from flowing through the femaleelectrical connector 382 of the first component 160″.

In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling system 212″ may be in theunlocked arrangement when in the first position. Of course, it iscontemplated the coupling system 212″ is in the locked arrangement whenin the first position. In other embodiments, depending on the locationof the electrical connectors in the first and second components, thefirst component may be in electrical communication in both the firstposition and the second position.

With reference to FIG. 19, in the second position, the female and maleelectrical connectors 382, 384 of the first and second components 160″,210″ electrically couple each other. Thus, the coupling system 212″advantageously allows the caregiver to electrically couple the first andsecond components 160″, 210″ to each other quickly and efficiently bypivoting the second component 210″ relative to the first component 160″.In the second position, the second component 210″ is supported by thefirst component 160″ and electrically coupled to the first component160″. The caregiver may pivot the second component 210″ between thefirst and second positions by urging the second component 210″ in theupward or downward direction as indicated by motion arrow 408.

When the coupling system 212″ is in the second position, the controller149 electrically couples the first component 160″ to the controller 149and/or the power distribution system 151 based on the input signal fromthe proximity sensor. In other words, when the coupling system 212″ isin the second position, electrical energy is allowed to flow through thefemale electrical connector 382 of the first component 160″. Moreover,the controller 149 may be configured to control the power distributionsystem 151 to supply AC and/or DC power to the medical accessory whenthe first component electrically couples to the mounting apparatus. Insuch instances, the controller may selectively control the powerdistribution system to supply AC and/or DC power only when the first andsecond components are in proximity to each other.

In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling system 212″ is in the lockedarrangement when in the second position. Of course, it is contemplatedthe coupling system 212″ is in the unlocked arrangement when in thesecond position.

It should be appreciated that the first component and the secondcomponent can be coupled to one another using other mechanisms, such asrotational locks or fasteners.

With reference to FIG. 20, in another embodiment, the coupling systemcomprises a first component 160′″ and a second component 210″. In theillustrated embodiment, the first component 160′″ is mounted to post 22″and the second component 210′″ is mounted to the medical accessory 26.Of course, it is contemplated that the first component 160′ may bemounted to the medical accessory 26 and the second component 210″ may bemounted to the post 22″.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first component 160′″ is integralwith the post 22″. However, first component 160′″ may not be integralwith the post 22′. The first component 160′″ comprises a first base260′″. The first base 260′″ defines a receiving chamber 405 forreceiving the second component 210′″.

The second component 210′″ comprises a second base 264′. The second base264′″ comprises locking tabs 407 partially disposed within the secondbase 264′″ and movable between an expanded position and a retractedposition. When the locking tabs 407 are in the expanded position, thelocking tabs 407 extend from the second base 264′. When the locking tabs407 are in the retracted position, the locking tabs 407 are at leastpartially recessed within the second base 264′ such that the secondcomponent 210′″ may be received in the receiving chamber 405 of thefirst component 160′″.

The locking tabs 407 may be spring loaded such that the locking tabs 407are biased into the expanded position. Moreover, the locking tabs 407may be geometrically configured to move to the retracted position uponcontact with the first base 260′″. When the locking tabs are received bythe receiving chamber 405, the locking tabs 407 are biased into theexpanded position to couple the first and second components 160′″, 210′″to each other.

The second base 264′ further comprises a push-button 409 to release thelocking tabs 407 and allow the locking tabs 407 to transition betweenthe expanded and retracted positions. When the caregiver engages thepush-button 409, the locking tabs 407 may be permitted move to theretracted position. In this manner, the caregiver can quickly andefficiently decouple the second component 210′ from the first component160′″.

In some embodiments, the medical accessory may include a handle. Thehandle may be disposed towards the front of the accessory to allow thecaregiver to favorably position the medical accessory adjacent theaccessory support to facilitate engagement of any the mounting devices,or first or second components coupled to the medical accessory. Ofcourse, the handle may be disposed in other locations on the medicalaccessory.

In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the medical accessories mayinclude an integral screw clamp or other mounting device. In suchembodiments, it may be useful to provide an adapter to retrofit thescrew clamp or other mounting device such that the screw clamp or othermounting device may directly engage the first or second component. Morespecifically, the adapter may couple the first or second mountingportion of the first or second component. In this manner, the first orsecond component may be retrofitted to existing medical accessories inthe healthcare facility.

In other embodiments, the medical accessory may be integrally formedwith the first or second component. In other words, the first or secondcomponent coupled to the medical accessory may not have a discrete firstor second mounting portion.

With reference to FIG. 21A, in another embodiment, the arm assembly maycomprise an extendable arm assembly 410. The extendable arm assembly 410is configured to act as an accessory support for supporting medicalaccessories.

The extendable arm assembly 410 may comprise a housing 412. In certainembodiments, the footboard or the headboard of the patient supportapparatus may serve as the housing 412 for the extendable arm assembly410. Alternatively, the housing 412 may be used in addition to thefootboard or headboard of the patient support apparatus, and may bemounted to any suitable location on the patient support apparatus, suchas the base, the intermediate frame, or the deck.

With continued reference to FIG. 21A, the extendable arm assembly 410comprises support members 414 and extendable arms 416. Each extendablearm 414 comprises a base end 418 and a support end 420 opposite the baseend 418. The extendable arms 416 are slidably coupled to the housing 412to move between a transport position (see FIG. 21B) and a patient-careposition (see FIG. 21C).

The base end 418 of each extendable arm 416 is disposed within thehousing 410. The support member 414 may be mounted to the support end420 of the extendable arm 416. Each support member 414 may furthercomprise a post mount 84″. The post mount 84″ is configured to engagethe bottom of the accessory support 20, such as the bottom of the posts22 to prevent movement of the posts 22 relative to the patient supportapparatus. As shown in FIGS. 21B and 21C, and as described above, insome instances the accessory support 20 may comprise handles 422 toallow the caregiver to move the extendable arms 416 between thepatient-care position and the transport position.

The housing 412 comprises an arm channel 413 on each side of the housing412 to accommodate at least a portion of the extendable arms 416. In theillustrated embodiment, both the arm channels 413 and the extendablearms 416 have an arcuate shape. As such, as each extendable arm 416moves from the transport position to the patient-care position, orvice-versa, the support end 420, and the accessory support 20, movealong a curved path relative to the housing 412, and the patient supportapparatus. Similarly, the base end 418 moves along a curved path definedby the arm channel 413 in the housing 412 as the extendable arm 416moves between the patient-care position and the transport position, andvice versa.

Because the extendable arms 416 are retracted to within the housing 412when the extendable arm assembly 410 is in the transport position, themajority of the length of the extendable arm 416 may be concealed by thehousing 412. This concealing may present a more aesthetic appearance. Asshown in FIG. 21B, when the extendable arms 416 are in the transportposition, the extendable arms 416 are received by the housing 412 suchthat they are disposed within the housing 412 and the support members414 abut the housing 412. As shown in FIG. 21C, when the extendable arms416 are in the extended position, the extendable arms 416 projectlaterally outward from the housing 412 such that the support members 414do not abut the housing 412.

In the patient-care position (FIG. 21C), at least one of the extendablearms 416 extend transversely to the patient support apparatus. Becauseof the arcuate shape, the extendable arms 416 also extend longitudinallytoward the foot end of the patient support apparatus. In this position,the accessory supports 20 are spaced apart from the patient supportapparatus and, hence, medical accessories coupled thereto are spacedaway from a patient's head.

It is contemplated that the extendable arm assembly 410 may comprise alocking device configured to lock the extendable arms 416 in thepatient-care position, the transport position, or any number ofintermediate positions.

It is further contemplated that the extendable arm assembly 410comprises an actuator configured to actuate the extendable arms 416between the transport position and the patient-care position. When theactuator is present, the housing 412 may comprise a user input unit 423configured to allow the caregiver to move the extendable arms 416between the transport position and the patient-care position. By way ofnon-limiting example, the user input unit 423 may be a touchscreen. Theuser input unit 423 may also serve to control one or more driven wheelsin certain embodiments, or control any other features of the patientsupport apparatus.

In some instances, the accessory support 20 may be pivotably coupled tothe support member 414. In such an embodiment, the housing 412 maycomprise receiving grooves 424 configured to receive the accessorysupport 20 such that the accessory support 20 may be stowed when theaccessory supports 20 are not required for patient care. In other words,the accessory support 20 may be pivoted to lie substantially horizontalto rest within the receiving grooves 424 when not in use. The receivinggrooves 424 may be dimensioned such that the accessory support 20 doesnot extend beyond either end. Furthermore, the receiving grooves 424 maybe dimensioned such that when the accessory support 20 is stowed in thereceiving grooves 424, the accessory support 20 does not extend beyondthe top of the housing 412. Thus, compared to when the accessorysupports 20 are in an upright position, the extendable arm assembly 410has a reduced dimensional profile when the accessory supports 20 arestowed in the receiving grooves 424. In addition, as shown, the posts 22may be telescopic such that they can be stowed in a length that can restwithin the receiving grooves 424.

When the accessory support 20 is pivotably coupled to the support member414, the support member 414 may further comprise a locking mechanismconfigured to lock the accessory support 20 relative to the supportmember 414 when the accessory support is in an upright position. Thelocking mechanism may also be configured to lock the accessory support20 when it rests within the receiving grooves 424, or any number ofintermediate positions.

Alternatively, the post mounts 84″ may be releasably coupled to thesupport members 414 such that the post mounts 84″ may be decoupled fromthe support members 414 and stowed in the receiving grooves 424 of theboard member 412 when the accessory supports 20 are not required forpatient care.

It should be appreciated that any post mount or frame mount describedherein may include a clutch feature that allows rotation of theaccessory support relative to the post mount. The level of forcenecessary to trigger the clutch feature may be adjusted by the use of ascrew adjustment mechanism or other sufficient adjustment mechanism. Theclutch may be disposed coaxially with the post mount/accessory support.

Several embodiments have been discussed in the foregoing description.However, the embodiments discussed herein are not intended to beexhaustive or limit the invention to any particular form. Theterminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of wordsof description rather than of limitation. Many modifications andvariations are possible in light of the above teachings and theinvention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

What is claimed is:
 1. A coupling system for a medical accessory, saidcoupling system comprising: an accessory support having a powerdistribution system; a first component supported by and electricallycoupled to said accessory support, with said first component comprising,a first coupling portion, and a first electrical connector forelectrically coupling said power distribution system of said accessorysupport to the medical accessory; and a second component configured tosupport the medical accessory and be electrically coupled to the medicalaccessory, said second component comprising, a second coupling portionconfigured for being removably coupled to said first coupling portion ofsaid first component, and a second electrical connector for electricallycoupling the medical accessory to said first electrical connector;wherein said first coupling portion and said second coupling portion areconfigured to allow rotating motion of said second component relative tosaid first component in at least one degree of freedom between a firstposition and a second position, wherein said second component issupported by said first component in said first and second positions,and wherein, during use, said second component rotates relative to saidfirst component in at least one degree of freedom between said first andsecond positions such that said first and second electrical connectorsare connected in said second position.
 2. A coupling system as set forthin claim 1 wherein said first component is configured to preventdownward movement of said second component relative to said firstcomponent when said second component is supported by said firstcomponent.
 3. A coupling system as set forth in claim 2 wherein saidfirst component is further configured to prevent lateral movement ofsaid second component relative to said first component when said secondcomponent is supported by said first component and where said firstelectrical connector is connected to said second electrical connector.4. A coupling system as set forth in claim 1 wherein one of said firstcomponent and said second component comprises a locking assemblyconfigured to place said first component and said second component in alocked arrangement.
 5. A coupling system as set forth in claim 1 whereinone of said first component and said second component comprises anindicator device configured to indicate a coupling status of saidcoupling system.
 6. A coupling system as set forth in claim 1 furthercomprising a deployment device coupled to one of said accessory supportand said first component, said deployment device configured to move saidfirst component relative to said accessory support to a deployed stateand an undeployed state, wherein said deployed state is configured tofacilitate coupling between said first component and said secondcomponent, and wherein said undeployed state has a reduced dimensionalprofile compared to said deployed state relative to said accessorysupport.
 7. A coupling system as set forth in claim 6 wherein saiddeployment device comprises a user input device, and wherein actuationof said user input device causes said deployment device to move fromsaid undeployed state to said deployed state.
 8. A coupling system asset forth in claim 1, wherein said first coupling portion comprises aspherical portion, and said second coupling portion comprises aspherical recess configured to engage said spherical portion of saidfirst coupling portion.
 9. A coupling system as set forth in claim 1,wherein said first electrical connector and said second connector arenot connected to one another when said first coupling portion and saidsecond coupling portion are in said first position.
 10. A couplingsystem as set forth in claim 1, wherein said first component furthercomprises a first mounting portion, and said first mounting portioncomprises a mounting device configured to releasably mount said firstcomponent to said accessory support.
 11. A system for powering a medicalaccessory with an accessory support, said system comprising: anaccessory support having a DC power distribution system configured tooutput DC power; a medical accessory that is free from an AC/DCconverter and is configured to receive DC power; a first componentcomprising a first mounting portion, a first coupling portion, and afirst electrical connector; a second component comprising a secondmounting portion, a second coupling portion, and a second electricalconnector, wherein: said first mounting portion is supported by saidaccessory support and said medical accessory is supported by said secondmounting portion, said first electrical connector is electricallycoupled to said power distribution system of said accessory support toelectrically couple said power distribution system of said accessorysupport to said medical accessory, said second coupling portion isconfigured for being removably coupled to said first coupling portion,said second electrical connector is electrically coupled to said medicalaccessory to couple said medical accessory to said first electricalconnector, and said first coupling portion and said second couplingportion are configured to allow rotating motion of said second componentrelative to said first component in at least one degree of freedombetween a first position and a second position, wherein said secondcomponent is supported by said first component in said first and secondpositions, and wherein, during use, said second component rotatesrelative to said first component in at least one degree of freedombetween said first and second positions such that said first electricalconnector is connected to said second electrical connector in saidsecond position to enable said power distribution system of saidaccessory support to provide DC power to said medical accessory.
 12. Asystem as set forth in claim 11, wherein said medical accessory isselected from the group comprising an infusion pump, a fluid warmer, amonitor, a respirator, a physiological sensor, a ventilator, a cardiacmonitor, a pulse oximeter, a non-invasive blood pressure measuringdevice, a digital thermometer, a liquid oxygen module, a defibrillator,a respiratory rate measuring device, and combinations thereof.
 13. Asystem as set forth in claim 11, further comprising a controller and aproximity sensor coupled to said first component and said controller,said controller is configured to determine whether said second componentis coupled to said first component based on a proximity input signalfrom said proximity sensor, and said controller is configured toselectively control said D/C power distribution system based on saidproximity input signal.
 14. A system as set forth in claim 11, furthercomprising a battery electrically coupled to said D/C power distributionsystem.
 15. A system for powering a medical accessory with an accessorysupport, said system comprising: an accessory support having a powerdistribution system configured to selectively output D/C power and A/Cpower, said accessory support further comprising a controller configuredto control said power distribution system; a first component comprisinga first mounting portion, a first coupling portion, and a firstelectrical connector, a second component comprising a second mountingportion, a second coupling portion, and a second electrical connector,wherein: said first mounting portion is supported by said accessorysupport and said second mounting portion is configured to support themedical accessory, said first electrical connector is electricallycoupled to said power distribution system of said accessory support toelectrically couple said power distribution system of said accessorysupport to the medical accessory, said second coupling portion isconfigured for being removably coupled to said first coupling portion,said second electrical connector is configured to be electricallycoupled to the medical accessory to couple the medical accessory to saidfirst electrical connector, said first coupling portion and said secondcoupling portion are configured to allow rotating motion of said secondcomponent relative to said first component in at least one degree offreedom between a first position and a second position, wherein saidsecond component is supported by said first component in said first andsecond positions, and wherein, during use, said second component rotatesrelative to said first component in at least one degree of freedombetween said first and second positions such that said first electricalconnector is connected to said second electrical connector in saidsecond position to enable said power distribution system of saidaccessory support to provide power to the medical accessory, and saidcontroller is configured to determine an identity of the medicalaccessory coupled to said second component, and cause said powerdistribution system to output A/C or D/C power based on said identity ofthe medical accessory.
 16. A system as set forth in claim 15, whereinsaid first component is configured to interact with said secondcomponent in a locked arrangement and an unlocked arrangement, and saidfirst component is configured to support said second component in saidlocked arrangement and said unlocked arrangement.
 17. A system as setforth in claim 15, wherein said first component further comprises athird electrical connector and said second component further comprises afourth electrical connector, wherein when said first coupling portion iscoupled to said second coupling portion, said third electrical connectoris coupled to said fourth electrical connector to enable said controllerto determine said identity of the medical accessory.
 18. A system as setforth in claim 15, wherein said controller is further configured tocontrol the voltage distributed by said power distribution system basedon said identity of the medical accessory.
 19. A system as set forth inclaim 15, further comprising a proximity sensor coupled to said firstcomponent and said controller, said controller is configured todetermine whether said second component is coupled to said firstcomponent based on a proximity input signal from said proximity sensor,and said controller is configured to selectively control said powerdistribution system based on said proximity input signal.
 20. A systemas set forth in claim 15, further comprising a first medical accessoryand a second medical accessory, wherein said first medical accessory isconfigured to receive only A/C power and said second medical accessoryis configured to receive only D/C power.